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WBNG, NY reports that Owego Fire Captain Mathew Porcari died battling a house fire in Newark Valley Monday night, when he fell through the floor into the burning basement. A second firefighter who tried to save Porcari suffered injuries. The house was not equipped with fire sprinklers. The home was a total loss, with only the cement basement remaining.
According to the report Captain Porcari, 34, entered the burning home with fellow volunteer Owego firefighter Lt. Daniel G. Gavin. Upon entering the burning home, Porcari fell through the floor and into the basement, while Gavin, 28, fell in partially and was able to pull himself out.
Both men were taken by ambulance to UHS Medical Center in Johnson City, where Porcari was pronounced dead. Gavin was later transferred to Upstate Medical Center in Syracuse, where he was treated and released Tuesday.
Another tragic example of why new homes should be required to be equipped with fire sprinkler systems.The emerging housing stock, which is expected to last 50-75 years, must be protected; not only for the generations that will occupy the homes, but for firefighters who risk their lives in their quest to save people and property. Will we still be talking about this 50 years from now?
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