South Bend Tribune
NEW CARLISLE, Ind. — A veteran New Carlisle firefighter was killed and another injured after the roof of a business that was on fire partially collapsed.
According to a report from WSBT-TV, Assistant Chief Jamie Middlebrook was trapped and killed in the blaze at K-Fex Inc., 5885 N. 800 E, just west of the St. Joseph-LaPorte county line.
LaPorte County Sheriff Michael Mollenhauer told the station one firefighter was pulled following the partial roof collapse but that crews couldn’t find Middlebrook. Firefighters had to remove vehicles from inside the building to get to his body, according to the station’s report.
Chief Middlebrook had been a volunteer member for 22 years and also worked as an EMT. Middlebrook’s father, Bob, has been a member of the department for approximately 40 years and was on scene with his son when the building collapsed.
Middlebrook’s body was removed from the building draped with an American flag and was taken from the scene under a police escort.
More than 15 fire departments were involved in fighting the blaze, according to the station’s report.
An officer at the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Department said additional information may be released later this morning.
Funeral arrangements are pending.
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