BELLAIRE, Ohio — A major structure fire on First Avenue in Bellaire Sunday morning quickly escalated into a dangerous situation as firefighters battled not only the flames but significant water supply problems.
The initial call came in shortly after 10:00 a.m. for a house fire with all occupants safely evacuated. Upon arrival, fire crews reported heavy smoke coming from the second floor of the residence.
Within minutes, firefighters encountered a critical problem — multiple hydrants in the area reportedly had little to no water pressure. Crews advised dispatch they had checked at least three hydrants and were unable to obtain a reliable water supply.
As the fire intensified, a Tanker Task Force was activated to bring water to the scene. Firefighters could be heard urgently requesting water as flames spread from the original structure to a neighboring home and threatened additional buildings.
At one point, a firefighter radioed, “I just need water! We are losing the second house now, possibly a third.”
Complicating matters further, downed power lines and arcing electrical wires created additional hazards around the fire scene. AEP crews later arrived and shut off power to the area.
Firefighters eventually established fill sites using hydrants in other parts of the village and at the Bellaire Marina. However, another setback occurred when crews reported a ruptured water main on High Street, prompting officials to notify the village of the emergency.
Mutual aid and additional manpower were requested from numerous departments throughout the Ohio Valley, including Benwood, Brilliant, and Moundsville.
As of this report, firefighters continue working to contain the blaze and protect nearby structures.
River News will be seeking answers regarding the reported hydrant failures and water system issues that impacted firefighting operations during this emergency.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the affected families and all first responders working this difficult and dangerous incident.
