Firefighters Battle Blaze at Same Address Twice in One Night

Firefighters from several area companies responded the 900 block of West Main Street at approximately 4:10 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 27, for a report of a three story building with fire and heavy smoke showing from the third floor.

According to Norristown Fire Chief Thomas O'Donnell, the fire spread quickly from 918 West Main Street to the adjoining building at 920 West Main, but firefighters where able to bring the blaze under control within 30 minutes.

One firetruck was damaged during the blaze when a passenger vehicle attempting to get around the truck at the rear of the scene struck the truck as firefighters were laying hoses. Chief O'Donnell reported that the engine sustained heavy damage and had to be towed from the scene.

No one was reported injured in the fire, but according to a Red Cross official, nine families with a total of 26 people are receiving assistance in the form of food and clothing following the fire. The Red Cross is also providing temporary lodging for eight of the nine families displaced by the fire. Both buildings were reportedly condemned by the Norristown Code Enforcement Department.

Nearly 6 hours later, at 10:07 p.m., firefighters were reportedly called again to the same address for another fire. According to the Breaking News Network, crews making an interior search of 918 West Main Street reported that the original fire had rekindled in the third floor front bedroom. A witness reported on Facebook that firefighters were throwing furniture from the third floor windows in an attempt to control the second fire's spread. Firefighters reportedly brought the second fire under control in under 20 minutes.

Officials have yet to report a cause of the original fire. Norristown Patch will update this story as more information becomes available.