20:38 hrs. Northumberland County Communications Center dispatched a working structure fire at 122 3rd Street, in Strong.
Upon arrival of Marshall 26 the call was upgraded to 2nd alarm status as he had flames showing on side A and D. The fire was quickly knocked down and overhaul was commenced within 20 minutes.
One K9 was rescued and crews could be heard calling for a pet mask so that they could administer oxygen to the dog. Unfortunately the 2nd dog did not make it.
A 5 inch supply line burst at the scene injuring one bystander who was evaluated by EMS on site. The homeowner and his daughter escaped the blaze. Mr. Hixon informed the fire department that the fire started on the stove as he was cooking.
FM Hollenbush confirmed that the fire was mostly contained to the kitchen area. "The homeowner was cooking perogies and that is what it looks like" “he left the stove on and a grease fire occurred,” Hollenbush said. “The fire crews did an excellent job suppressing the flames.”
Hixson is a volunteer with the Mount Carmel Rescue Squad.
Assisting Hollenbush with command was township Assistant Fire Chief Charles Gasperetti and Chief Mike Minnig of the Atlas Fire Company. Mr. Hixon and his daughter are being assisted by the Red Cross.