Smithtown, NY – On July 26, 2023, a structure fire occurred at the Willow Condo Complex located at 12 Plantation Drive. The Smithtown Fire Department was alerted to the situation at 11:43 AM. Upon arrival, First Assistant Chief Daniel Dongvort discovered an advanced fire through the roof of unit #11, which was spreading to adjacent units within a six-unit townhouse building.
The alarm was upgraded to a working fire with a second alarm transmitted. Engine 4-2-4 secured a water source and initiated an interior attack with two handlines. Engine 4-2-3 supported this effort and used its master stream on unit #12. Hauppauge FD Engine 3-8-4 added two more lines for exposure protection while Nesconset Ladder 4-4-7 performed roof operations.
A partial collapse of the second floor in both units #11 and #12 prompted a shift to an exterior attack strategy. In total, four handlines and two master streams were employed in battling the blaze. All residents evacuated safely before firefighters arrived, though one firefighter received treatment for heat exhaustion.
Chief of Department Timothy Duckham commanded all units on scene, with assistance from Third Assistant Chief Joseph Palazzo. The fire was declared under control by 12:45 PM, with crews remaining until approximately 2:20 PM. The Town of Smithtown Fire Marshal’s office is investigating the cause of the fire, believed to have started at the rear of unit #11.
Chief Duckham expressed his admiration for his team's efforts: “Everyday I’m impressed with the dedication of our members, but today I’m especially proud of their actions.”
Mutual aid agencies present included Hauppauge, Nesconset, Commack, St. James, Kings Park, Nissequogue, Stonybrook Fire Departments as well as Commack and Stony Brook Ambulance services. Ronkonkoma and Northport Fire Departments were on standby.
Photo credit goes to Evan Rolla.