Deputy Fire Chief recovering at New Bedford hospital after fire that left one dead, injured several others

Chief O’Brien reports that Lakeville Deputy Chief Pamala Garant, who was injured on Sunday when a portion of a building collapsed during a structure fire, continues to recover at St. Luke’s Hospital in New Bedford.

“Deputy Chief Pam Garant extends her deep gratitude to the members of the community, fellow first responders, and municipal leaders who have gone out of their way to offer support.”

Chief O’Brien also recognized “the exceptional actions of Middleborough Fire Department Acting Lieutenant Robert Delaney and Middleborough Police Officer Aidan Nemar.”

“Lt. Delaney had observed Deputy Garant operating at the rear of the structure moments before the collapse. When the building failed in the area where she was working, he immediately jumped into action. He located Deputy Garant pinned beneath burning debris and worked to free her. With assistance from Officer Nemar, she was moved to a safe area.

“The swift and decisive actions of these first responders prevented further harm to the Deputy. Garant was then treated and transported by Lakeville Firefighter/Paramedic Megan McCabe and a crew from Coastal Ambulance to St. Luke’s Hospital.

“Please join the Department in recognizing the extraordinary performance of all responders who rose to meet these extremely challenging circumstances.

“Deputy Garant also wishes to express her gratitude to the medical staff at St. Luke’s Hospital, noting that their care and compassion have been exceptional.

“The Department wishes to extend our condolences to friends and family of the person who died in the fire. We also wish for complete recoveries for the others who were injured.”

On Sunday, at just after 9:45 a.m., Middleborough Fire responded to 172 Ashley Lane for reports of a structure fire.

Upon arrival, crews observed heavy smoke and flames coming from the first and second floors of the attached condo building, at both the front and rear of the building. The fire had also extended to adjacent condo units.

One person, an adult, was pronounced dead at the scene. Two other residents were transported by Carver EMS to an area hospital for what are believed to be non-life-threatening injuries.

The two adjacent buildings which includes four units, sustained significant damages. Residents are being assisted by the American Red Cross. 

Mutual aid was provided by Bridgewater Fire, Raynham Fire, Lakeville Fire, Wareham Fire and Carver EMS. Carver Fire provided station coverage.

The origin and cause of the fire remain under investigation by the Middleborough Fire Department, Middleborough Police Department, the Massachusetts State Police Fire and Explosion Investigation Unit attached to the State Fire Marshal’s Office, and Massachusetts State Police Detectives assigned to the Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office.