PALMYRA 鈥 Palmyra Fire Rescue crews were called at 11:42 a.m. Wednesday to a blaze at the American Legion, 115 N. 3rd St., Palmyra.
Palmyra Deputy Fire Chief Dylan Callas said that while the first engines were responding, firefighters received additional reports of visible smoke and flames coming from the building. Firefighters immediately upgraded the incident to a MABAS working-still assignment, bringing in additional mutual aid resources to assist with fire suppression and support operations.
Crews quickly deployed hose lines and initiated an offensive fire attack while additional apparatus established a water supply from a nearby hydrant. Mutual aid companies also assisted with fire suppression, scene support, manpower, and overhaul operations throughout the incident.
Callas said the responding firefighters acted so quickly in their coordinated efforts that crews contained the fire to the front of the building and prevented further extension inside. He said firefighters remained on the scene for an extended period conducting overhaul operations, checking for hotspots and hidden fire, and ensuring the building was safe before clearing the scene.
Following an initial investigation by Palmyra Fire Rescue, Callas said the probable ignition source was determined to be a torch used by an asphalt crew working adjacent to the building鈥檚 exterior wall at the time of the initial call.
No civilian or firefighter injuries were reported. The investigation remains ongoing.
