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JANUARY 2ND,2008 LINE OF DUTY DEATH It is with deep regret, that the Elizabeth Fire Department announces the death of FF Gary Stephens, Engine Co. 2 which occurred on Friday, January 2, 2009 as a result of injuries sustained while operating a Box 2215 for the address 335 Marshall Street. Around 0200 Hours The Elizabeth Fire Department transmitted Box 2215 for a fire reported at 335 Marshall Street off Third Avenue. Companies were advised that numerous calls were being received reporting fire. Engine Company 5 arrived and reported a working fire in a large 2.5 story wood frame followed by a request for the 2nd Alarm for a fully involved house with extension to exposure B, another wood frame dwelling. During the early stages of the fire Engine Company 2 radioed that they had a firefighter down and requested Rescue 1 and EMS under the NJ Turnpike Overpass. Firefighter Gary Stephens was to the rear of Engine Company 2 backing up the Engine towards a hydrant. Firefighter Stephens turned away for a moment and was struck by the slow moving apparatus. Firefighter Stephens was taken to Trinitas Regional Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead. The other firefighters on scene continued to operate to extinguish the fire now involving two houses. Around an hour later a 19 year old male walked into the same emergency room with burns to his hands and face, claiming he was injured in the fire. It was determined by Elizabeth Police that the male was squatting in the house and started a fire to keep warm. He was charged with arson and felony murder in connection with Firefighter Stephens' death. Firefighter Gary Stephens was assigned to Engine Company 2 and was a 28 year veteran of the Elizabeth Fire Department. | |
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