Fire Rips Through The Home Of Former Camden City Fire Chief; 1 In Critical Condition
MOUNT EPHRAIM, N.J. (CBS) -- A fire broke out in the home of former Camden City Fire Chief Joe Marini Wednesday morning.
The blaze occurred on the 100 block of 3rd Avenue in Mt. Ephraim, New Jersey.
Eyewitness News learned a man was stripping paint off of the wall with chemicals and some kind of torch before flames broke out in the basement and spread to the first floor.
Marini and a family member attempted to put out fire with a garden hose.
Marini was taken to Cooper Hospital suffering from minor smoke inhalation. He is listed in stable condition. Matthew DeGailler, was taken to Temple Hospital with severe inhalation and burns. He is listed in critical condition.
The fire has been put out, but the home will not be habitable until extensive repairs are made.
Marini was part of Camden City Fire Department for more than 30 years. He served as Chief, the department's top position, from 2000 to 2009 when he retired.
DeGailler is a volunteer fire fighter with the Mt. Ephraim Fire Department. He is currently on a medical leave of absence.
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