Fatal Fire Claims One Life, Injures Three in Bellmore

The blaze erupted around 4:30 a.m., quickly engulfing the initial residence before spreading to a neighboring home. Firefighters arriving at the scene encountered heavy fire conditions that prevented immediate rescue efforts.

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

Bellmore Fire Department Chief Ozechowski reported that crews faced challenging conditions upon arrival, with intense flames forcing them to retreat from their initial rescue attempts. The fire’s rapid spread led to structural collapse in both homes.

Winter weather conditions complicated the emergency response when firefighters discovered a hydrant covered in ice and snow. Crews had to dig out the hydrant, creating what officials described as a “slight delay” in their firefighting efforts.

Residents of the second affected home managed to evacuate safely on their own as flames spread from the original structure. A third nearby home sustained damage but remained standing.

Three people required medical treatment for smoke inhalation injuries. One resident was transported to a local hospital, while two Nassau County police officers who attempted to enter the burning home to assist with rescue efforts also received treatment for smoke exposure.

The incident highlights ongoing challenges facing Long Island’s fire departments during winter months, when frozen hydrants and harsh weather conditions can hamper emergency response efforts. Local fire officials regularly remind residents about winter fire safety, particularly regarding heating equipment and emergency preparedness.

Chapman Avenue remained closed to traffic for several hours as fire crews worked to extinguish hot spots and investigators began examining the scene. The Nassau County Fire Marshal’s office has launched an investigation into the cause of the blaze, though officials have not released any preliminary findings.

The Bellmore community, located in Nassau County’s Town of Hempstead, has rallied around affected families. Local officials are coordinating with the American Red Cross to provide temporary housing assistance for displaced residents.

This tragic incident serves as a reminder for Long Island residents to check smoke detectors, maintain heating systems, and develop family emergency plans. Fire safety experts recommend having multiple escape routes planned and practicing them regularly, especially during winter months when heating-related fires become more common.

The investigation into the fire’s cause continues, with Nassau County Fire Marshal investigators working to determine what sparked the deadly blaze that forever changed this quiet Bellmore neighborhood.