Firefighters Battle Blaze In Extreme Temps
A fire broke out around 2 AM Sunday morning on the 6200 block of Hohman Ave at Tom’s Treasure Chest. Firefighters are fighting this blaze in negative temperatures which is causing issues with water and equipment as it freezes instantly.
One person was transported to the hospital for smoke inhalation and burns when crews arrived. The individual was in the building at the time and living there according to officials. He was able to get out as crews arrived and immediately transported to Franciscan Hammond.
A City of Hammond bulldozer knocked down walls down so crews could get more water in the building around 4 AM. The bulldozer was also able to salvage an antique car in the garage by pulling it out. At least four other cars were not able to be saved before flames took over the roof.
As of noon Sunday, crews are still on scene hitting hot spots and excavating remaining walls. A bulldozer pictured below hauls frozen 5 inch hose back to the station to thaw as firefighter break down the scene and begin to thaw themselves. Hohman between 165th & Dyer Blvd will be closed for an undetermined amount of time to remove debris and deice the area.
The power outage in the immediate area for residents has occurred due to wires being cut and burned in the area. Nipsco is on scene working to restore all services and cut gas to the demolished building. Residents are utilizing the Hammond Civic Center as a warming shelter for those that may need.
More updates to come through the morning.
