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Franklin Fire Company Responds to Two Fires in One Evening

Photo and information obtained from Franklin Fire Company

Last night, the Franklin Fire Company responded to two significant fire incidents in quick succession, showcasing their efficiency and preparedness in handling emergency situations.

The first call came in at 8:13 PM for a building fire at the 4500 block of Molly Pitcher Highway South, near Jesse James Auto Mart. Engine 43 was quick to the scene, setting up at the rear of the building. They deployed a handline for an interior fire attack. Assistant Chief 49, Himes, reported the presence of fire within the walls. Squad 41 was tasked with opening up the interior to prevent further spread. Their efforts were successful in containing the fire within the building.

Shortly after, at 9:37 PM, the company was called to another fire, this time in a residential area at the 700 block of Hillcrest Drive in Hamilton Township. Squad 41, fresh from their previous engagement, along with RE-11 (Pleasant Hall) who covered Station 4, and Truck 42, responded to a reported kitchen fire. Upon arrival, they discovered a stove fire that had extended to nearby structures. Crews had to open the walls to completely extinguish the fire.

Cleanup operations were underway by 10:30 PM. These back-to-back emergencies tested the company’s resilience and ability to effectively manage multiple emergencies in a short period.

Photographs from the scenes were captured by Mike Churchey, Company 8.

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Fred Allen Blocher 1943-2026

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Born January 4, 1945 in Washington, D.C., Frank was an avid Civil War enthusiast who loved to share his knowledge with others.

Who We Are

The Franklin County Free Press, established by Vicky Taylor in 2019, emerged as a beacon of local journalism for the residents of Franklin County. Under Vicky's leadership, it quickly became an essential source of news, particularly at a time when major newspaper publications were increasingly overlooking local coverage.

On January 1, 2022, the torch was passed to Nathan Neil and his firm, Neil Publishing, LLC. Neil, a local entrepreneur with multiple thriving businesses in Chambersburg, shares Vicky's fervent commitment to both the community and the world of local journalism.

Rooted in the heart of Franklin County and powered by its residents, the Franklin County Free Press continues to bridge the gap, ensuring that the local stories, events, and issues that matter most to the community remain in the spotlight.