At 9:32 pm on Friday, 12/20/2024 the Ansonia Fire Department with a Derby Engine & Truck and Seymour Rescue 12 as the FAST were dispatched to 75 North Cliff Street for a candle that tipped over and lit a room on fire. 

A chief officer arrived at 9:35 reporting a large 3 story wood frame occupied multiple dwelling with heavy fire from the rear of the third floor and transmitted the second alarm. Truck 7 positioned on the Alpha/Delta corner and flew their bucket. Engine 6 laid in from a hydrant on North Cliff and took an 1.75” hose line through the front door and up the stairs. Engine 3 hooked up to the hydrant in front of the house and also stretched a 1.75” hose line.

Derby Truck 15 positioned in a parking lot on the Bravo side and sent their crew to the roof for vertical ventilation. Derby Engine 12 laid in from a hydrant and stretched a 2.5” hose line to the rear where fire was blowing out multiple windows while extending into the attic. Engine 5 laid in from a fourth hydrant and fed Derby’s Truck. 

Crews searched and operated multiple lines inside until command evacuated them at 10:12. Shortly after, fire broke through the roof. After about 15 minutes of ladder pipes operating, crews regrouped and went back inside. 

An additional FAST responded from Shelton. Companies remained on scene throughout the cold night opening up while hitting hot spots. The Ansonia Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating.