06/11/2026
Press Release:
SYRACUSE FIREFIGHTERS RESPOND TO FOUR FIRES WHILE OPERATING IN EXTREME CONDITIONS
While major fires often draw the most public attention, the incidents that never become major fires can be just as significant.
On Thursday, June 11, 2026, between 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m., Syracuse Firefighters responded to four separate fires across the city. The most serious incident, a Signal "99" on North Midler Avenue, required a large-scale response and will likely receive the most attention. During this same two-hour period, firefighters successfully stopped three other fires before they could grow into similar emergencies.
-On Benedict Avenue, firefighters quickly contained a small fire in the kitchen.
-On Lilac Street, crews located and extinguished a small fire in the basement before it could spread throughout the residence.
-On Gebhardt Avenue, crews quickly extinguished an outside rubbish fire that had begun impinging on a nearby residence.
Notably, the incidents on Gebhardt Avenue and Lilac Street occurred while firefighters were still actively operating at the Signal "99" fire on North Midler Avenue.
In the fire service, it is commonly recognized that a fire can double in size in 30 seconds under the right conditions. These incidents serve as a reminder that what may appear to be a small fire is often only minutes away from becoming a major emergency. The difference between a minor incident and a devastating loss is often measured in minutes and determined by how quickly firefighters arrive, assess the situation, and take action.
While these incidents may not attract the same attention as a major fire, the property preserved, injuries prevented, and lives protected are among the most important measures of success for Syracuse Firefighters.
Today's incidents occurred during a period of high heat and humidity, conditions that make firefighting especially demanding. Wearing heavy protective equipment while operating in extreme temperatures requires exceptional physical effort, training, and dedication. Despite those challenges, Syracuse Firefighters responded throughout the afternoon to protect residents and prevent these incidents from becoming far more serious emergencies.
NORTH MIDLER COMMERCIAL GARAGE FIRE
Syracuse, NY – On Thursday, June 11, 2026, at 1:58 p.m., Syracuse Firefighters were alerted by the Onondaga County 911 Center to a reported fire at 360 North Midler Avenue. Crews from Station 17 on Burnet Avenue responded and could see smoke from several blocks away. Upon arrival, Engine 17 connected to a hydrant and entered a commercial complex, where firefighters found heavy smoke and fire coming from two garage bays at the rear of the property. A Signal “99” was transmitted, indicating a working fire.
Firefighters stretched multiple hose lines and began extinguishment operations. The potential presence of flammable liquids and compressed gases required crews to exercise caution and operate from a safe distance until the fire was brought under control. Once conditions improved, firefighters ventilated the structure to remove heat and smoke and improve visibility.
The fire was brought under control within 10 minutes and declared fully extinguished in less than 45 minutes. Searches of the structure and surrounding area confirmed there were no victims.
The portion of the building affected by the fire appeared to be used for automotive repair. Utilities to that section of the building were disconnected and will remain out of service until repairs are completed.
There were no reported civilian injuries. Two firefighters were injured during firefighting operations. One firefighter suffered a leg injury, while another was taken to Upstate Community Hospital for evaluation. Their conditions are unknown at this time.
According to Syracuse Fire Investigators, the cause and origin of the fire remain under investigation. Firefighters remained on scene for more than two hours assisting investigators and completing overhaul operations.
Due to the elevated temperatures, the Syracuse Fire Department’s Medical Emergency Response Vehicle (MERV-1) responded to the scene to provide cooling, hydration, and medical monitoring for more than 40 firefighters operating at the incident.
