07/27/2026
🔥For Immediate Release🔥
This morning at 6:44 a.m., a first-alarm assignment was dispatched to 32 Hawkins Street in the Borough of Danielson for a reported working structure fire with entrapment.
A Killingly-Brooklyn Ambulance (KB) medic and ambulance crew arrived on scene at 6:47 a.m. and reported heavy fire showing from the front of the building, with multiple exposure structures threatened. The crew confirmed that all occupants had safely evacuated the residence; however, one civilian sustained burns and possible smoke inhalation.
Car 61 arrived shortly thereafter, assumed command, and transmitted a second alarm due to the heavy fire conditions and the threat to surrounding exposure buildings.
During a primary search of the C-side (rear) of the residence, firefighters from the South Killingly and Danielson Fire Departments located and rescued a cat from the structure. A KB medic, assisted by firefighters on scene, successfully revived the cat before a Good Samaritan transported it to a local veterinary hospital for further care. Tragically, despite the efforts of firefighters, approximately 30 cats perished in the fire.
The injured occupant was airlifted to Bridgeport Hospital for further evaluation and treatment.
One firefighter sustained injuries after being struck by falling debris while operating at the scene. The firefighter was evaluated, treated, and later transported by ambulance to the hospital for further care. No other injuries were reported.
The Danielson Fire Department extends its sincere appreciation to all of our mutual aid partners for their rapid response, professionalism, and teamwork. Since early May, the department has been focused on rebuilding and strengthening relationships with neighboring agencies through collaboration, joint training, and a shared commitment to providing the highest level of service to our communities. Today's incident serves as a powerful example of those efforts and demonstrates what can be accomplished when agencies train together and respond as one unified team.
We are aware of comments circulating on social media regarding our department and the progress being made. While some individuals may continue to question or mischaracterize those efforts, today's response speaks for itself. We understand that it can be easy to judge events from behind a keyboard without firsthand experience, training, or access to the complete factual information surrounding an emergency incident. The professionalism, coordination, and dedication displayed on the fireground reflect the commitment of every firefighter, EMT, paramedic, dispatcher, and command officer who responded.
The active members of the Danielson Fire Department remain committed to answering every call for service with integrity, professionalism, and pride. We will continue working alongside our mutual aid partners to protect our community, regardless of outside criticism. Our focus will remain where it belongs—serving the residents of Danielson and ensuring they receive the highest level of emergency response when they need it most.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Killingly Fire Marshal's Office and the Connecticut Office of the State Fire Marshal.
