LUZERNE COUNTY, Pa. – Shortly before 10:30 PM on Thursday, November 1, Luzerne County 9-1-1 dispatched Hazleton City Fire to 250 South Church Street in the City for a reported commercial structure fire.
Chief 2 was advised of multiple calls reporting fire through the roof of the Beltway Diner. Units arrived on scene to find heavy smoke and flames showing from the roof of the single story restaurant.
Ladder 1 arrived and took the address while Engine 2 went to the “B” side and secured a water supply. Rescue 3 secured an additional water supply.
Chief 2 requested a working fire page be sent out and reserve apparatus be placed in service. This request brought Ladder Tower 1, Engine 5, Utility 6 and the Chief of the Department to the scene.
Firefighters attempted to make entry into the dining area to attack the fire from inside but were pulled out after the roof began to be compromised due to heavy fire burning beneath.
Master streams were put in to service from both aerial devices and crews worked handlines through the windows.
After pouring water through the roof for twenty minutes the fire was darkened down and the smoke turned to steam bringing the fire mostly under control.
Firefighters remained on the scene into the morning hours working the incident.
Hazle Township and McAdoo fire companies were moved up to City fire stations during the incident to provide coverage.
