A major structure fire broke out Thursday morning at 5 John Street near East Funston Avenue in Spring Valley, prompting a large-scale response from numerous fire departments across Rockland County.
The fire began around 9:30 a.m. in the basement boiler room of the home and rapidly spread throughout the basement and to the second floor, which housed a residential apartment. Firefighters from Spring Valley, Hillcrest, Monsey, Nanuet, Orangeburg, South Spring Valley, West Haverstraw, and West Nyack battled the intense blaze for nearly three hours before bringing it under control by 12:11 p.m.
Shortly after initial containment, the fire rekindled around 12:30 p.m., prompting crews to return to the scene and fully extinguish the remaining hotspots. The house was completely destroyed by the flames. Thankfully, a cat was rescued from the property during the firefighting efforts.
Several firefighters were treated on scene for heat exhaustion, dehydration, and smoke inhalation due to the extreme weather conditions and the intensity of the fire.
Throughout the incident, the Monsey Fire Department’s RAC (Rehabilitation and Comfort) Unit played a crucial support role. The RAC team provided firefighters with air refills, hydration, food, and a climate-controlled space to recover while working in the sweltering heat.
Firefighters remained on scene into the afternoon conducting overhaul operations and ensuring the area was safe. No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
