The Wilmington Fire Department was dispatched to a reported structure fire in the 400 block of W 23rd Street. Battalion Chief Robert Pryor, Battalion 1 arrived shortly after dispatch and reported heavy fire showing from the 1st and 2nd floors of a 3 story, semi-detached dwelling. Firefighters made an aggressive interior attack on the fire while other firefighters searched the residence to ensure that all occupants had escaped. During the operation, the fire spread to all floors of the structure as well as the roof area. Additional resources were requested to the scene for extra manpower and equipment to assist with fire suppression. One civilian was evaluated by Wilmington FD EMS and New Castle County Paramedics for smoke inhalation. That patient refused transport to the hospital. One Wilmington Firefighter was evaluated for heat exhaustion and was transported to Wilmington Hospital for further treatment. He was later released. The fire caused heavy damage to all floors of the residence. The adjoining residence suffered heat and smoke damage. The Wilmington Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the cause of the fire.

Approximately 60 fire and EMS personnel responded to the fire. The following units responded: Squad 4, Engine 3, Engine 1, Engine 5, Engine 2; Ladder 1, Ladder 2; Talleyville Ladder 25; Five Points Ladder 17; Ambulance 3, Ambulance 2; New Castle County EMS