Fatal Fire Claims One Life, Damages Three Homes in Bellmore

The blaze erupted around 4:30 a.m., quickly engulfing the initial residence before spreading to a neighboring home and damaging a third property. Despite immediate response from the Bellmore Fire Department, firefighters encountered intense flames that prevented initial entry attempts.

Bellmore Fire Department Chief Ozechowski reported that crews faced heavy fire conditions upon arrival, with the flames rapidly spreading to an adjacent house. The residents of the second home managed to evacuate safely on their own.

“Sadly one occupant is deceased at the scene, despite valiant efforts to rescue the trapped occupant by fire department and police officers,” stated Chief Fire Marshal Michael F. Uttaro in an official statement.

The fire response faced additional challenges due to winter weather conditions. A fire hydrant covered in ice and snow required crews to dig it out, causing what officials described as a “slight delay” in suppression efforts. This delay highlights ongoing concerns about winter emergency response across Nassau County, where snow accumulation can complicate firefighting operations.

Both of the primary affected homes suffered structural collapse due to the intensity of the flames. The extent of damage to the third property has not been detailed, though officials confirmed it sustained fire damage.

Three individuals received medical treatment for smoke inhalation injuries. One resident from the scene was hospitalized, while two Nassau County police officers required treatment after their attempts to enter the burning structure to rescue the trapped occupant.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Nassau County Fire Marshal’s office. Officials have not released the identity of the deceased resident or provided updates on the condition of those hospitalized.

The Chapman Avenue incident marks another tragic residential fire in Nassau County, where winter months often see increased fire risks due to heating system usage and holiday decorations. Local fire departments regularly remind residents to check smoke detectors, maintain heating equipment, and ensure clear evacuation routes.

Bellmore, located in the Town of Hempstead, is a densely populated suburban community where homes are often built in close proximity. This configuration can lead to rapid fire spread between structures, as witnessed in Wednesday’s incident.

The response involved multiple Nassau County agencies, including the Bellmore Fire Department, Nassau County Police, and the County Fire Marshal’s office. The coordinated emergency response demonstrates the regional cooperation typical of Long Island’s interconnected fire and police services.

Residents in the immediate area were temporarily displaced while crews worked to contain the blaze and ensure structural safety of surrounding homes. The American Red Cross has not yet announced whether assistance will be provided to affected families.

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of fire safety measures, particularly during winter months when heating systems work overtime and emergency response can face weather-related obstacles.