House Fire: Woman Dead, Two Firefighters Hospitalized

A fatal fire in Northeast Philadelphia took the life of one woman and forced dozens of people into the cold in the early New Year's day.

The 4-alarm blaze started before 1:00 a.m. in the 2100 block of Benson Street.

You could see fire and plumes of smoke coming from the building. 

The fire killed an elderly woman and injured three residents. They are listed in critical condition. 

Two firefighters were also hurt. They were transferred to Temple University Hospital. One of them is being treated for second degree burns to the knees and legs.  He is in stable condition.

Fire Chief Lloyd Ayers says it could have been much worse if the firefighters on the scene didn't act immediately.

"It could have been many many more lives lost if it wasn't for the companies going into service making sure they got folks out," said Ayers.

Frigid temperatures caused the water that firefighters used to freeze.  A salt truck was called out to treat the road at Benson Street.

50 people were evacuated from 62 unit building. The Red Cross is on hand helping displaced families.

Fire officials are still investigating to see what caused the blaze.

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