URGENT UPDATE: A two-alarm fire devastated a building on Hyatt Street in Chester on Friday evening, displacing two residents and prompting a swift emergency response. The fire was reported at approximately 6:20 p.m., sending firefighters racing to the scene in the 1000 block.
As flames erupted from the cockloft and roof space, police quickly alerted neighbors, banging on doors to warn them of the smoky peril. Chester Fire Commissioner John-Paul Shirley confirmed that the fire escalated rapidly, leading to a second alarm shortly after the initial call, just 15 minutes later. This prompted additional support from nearby fire departments and off-duty Chester crews.
Firefighters faced challenges as they battled flames fueled by burning insulation in the structure. The fire was finally declared under control after approximately 45 minutes, with crews successfully preventing the blaze from spreading to adjacent row homes.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported. However, the two displaced residents are currently without shelter, though the exact location of their temporary accommodations remains unclear. The Red Cross has acknowledged its involvement in assisting victims of a separate fire in Ridley Township on the same day, but details on their support for the Chester incident are still pending.
The cause of the fire is under investigation, but officials have stated it is not considered suspicious. Residents and officials alike are left shaken by the incident, highlighting the urgent need for community support in times of crisis.
Stay tuned for further updates as the investigation unfolds and as community resources are mobilized to assist those affected.
