((2 PM UPDATE))
WEST ELLICOTT, NY – An additional firefighter was taken to UPMC Chautauqua Hospital for evaluation following Tuesday morning’s fire in West Ellicott. This brings the number of victims to four, including two first responders. No additional injuries were reported.
As of 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, a structural demolition ordered by the Town of Ellicott is underway.
The Chautauqua County Fire Investigation Team continues to investigate the fire’s cause and origin.
((ORIGINAL))
WEST ELLICOTT, NY – Three people were taken to the hospital as firefighters battled a large scale blaze at a Chautauqua County Motel on Tuesday.
Fire companies were first dispatched around 5:30 a.m. to the Colony Motel at 620 Fairmount Avenue.
Celoron Fire Chief Jamison Justham says when first responders arrived they found heavy fire in the rear of the building, with significant extension to the second story.
Two victims and one firefighter were transported for evaluation to UPMC Chautauqua Hospital. Initially, one person was reported to be entrapped inside the building, however the resident was later found by firefighters outside without injury.
Crews have since performed interior searches on the first floor of the building and found no other victims. As of mid-day Tuesday, departments were still working to contain flames.
“We’ve used a significant amount of water to extinguish the blaze,” said Chief Justham. “Once the fire is safely contained, fire investigators will begin looking into a cause.”
The Red Cross and Salvation Army are assisting around 15 hotel guests who were displaced.
In addition to Celoron FB, Lakewood FD, Bemus Point FD, Fluvanna FD, Kennedy FD, Sherman FD, Ashville FD, Busti FD and Frewsburg FD responded to the scene.
Chautauqua County Emergency Services, County EMS, Alstar EMS, Ellicott Police and the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office is also assisting.
