Mattress fire 2nd alarm
401 West Centre Street
Ashland, Pa

Triple home fire included the home of Borough Fire Chief Groody.
SCCC (Schuylkill County Communications center) dispatched a working structure fire located at 402 West Centre Str., Ashland, Pa. It was originally reported as a mattress fire on the 2nd division “A” side.
This brought firefighters from Columbia, Schuylkill and Northumberland counties who quickly gained the upper hand ensuring the fire was placed under control in approximately 45 minutes.
The Ashland Police Chief Mark O'Hearn confirmed everyone was able to exit the homes safely.
Ashland Assistant Fire Chief Charles Orth stated “In that front bedroom at 402, that fire was rolling, as far as there coming out the windows.”

The bulk of the fire and damage being contained to the original fire structure at 400 Centre St. Adjoining neighboring structures sustained smoke and water damage including the home of Ashland Fire Chief Philip Groody 404-406 Centre St. “They did an extremely good job at knocking this fire down, extremely,” said Ashland Fire Chief Philip Groody who is starting his 46th year as a firefighter. You always fear the day will come. Living in a row home in Ashland, it is one of your biggest fears. Thank God there was nobody home. We were all working. Now it is time to pick up the pieces and rebuild.”

The fire displaced 14 people with a place to stay who are being assisted by the Red Cross.

The cause is under investigating by the Fire Marshall.