The Hartford Fire Department remained quiet on the investigation into the death of one of its own, despite media reports providing new details.
More than three weeks have passed since the Oct. 7 fire on Blue Hills Avenue which killed firefighter Kevin Bell, and why the fire started and how it killed Bell remain unanswered.
Listening to radio chatter from that night, Fox CT reported that Bell was unaccounted for inside the burning home for at least seven minutes. Crews had to go back in and find him unconscious.
There have also been questions about whether Bell’s oxygen tank malfunctioned. Fire command confirmed that the tank is being tested.
“Of course the equipment, everything from the hydrant that was used, the fire engine that was used, the pumping mechanisms in the fire truck, anything, any equipment that he was wearing,” Capt. Helene Lynch said.
The fire department also confirmed that firefighters are responsible for inspecting their own gear when they report to duty, and that includes making sure their oxygen tanks are completely full before responding to a call.
Command staff said it could take months to get a final report on the deadly fire.
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