Driver Safe After Fire Engulfs & Destroys Camry

Wednesday, February 21, 2024: Sandy Hook VFR and Newtown Hook & Ladder were dispatched at 13:07 for a reported car fire on I-84 West between Exits 11 and 10.

Fire Police Shannon Will confirmed the vehicle was just east of the Church Hill Road overpass and fully involved. The male driver of the vehicle, a 2001 Toyota Camry, was able to exit the vehicle without injury. 

Engine 441 and a crew responded from Sandy Hook, and Engine 111 with a crew responded from Hook & Ladder. Sandy Hook Lieutenant Archie Paloian assumed command upon arrival with 441. 

A CT DOT crew staged behind the apparatus and CT State Police cruisers, and provided blocking and traffic management. 

Firefighters quickly extended a line and knocked down the fire. 

Hook & Ladder was released at 13:43. The vehicle was towed by Modzelewski’s, and Sandy Hook returned to service at 13:59. 

View upon arrival by Fire Police Shannon Will.

Engine 441 and its crew arriving on scene.

SHVFR Firefighter Andy DeWolfe on the hose line.

SHVFR Firefighter Andy DeWolfe (left) and Engineer Brian Engelke on the hoseline.

Firefighter Andy DeWolfe works to open the engine compartment (above) and truck (below).