Philadelphia

Firefighters Battle Tire Fire Near Betsy Ross Bridge

The two-alarm fire started at a large tire pile by train tracks near Richmond and Lewis streets in Philadelphia around 5 p.m. Monday.

What to Know

  • Firefighters battled a tire fire near the Betsy Ross Bridge.
  • The two-alarm fire started at a large tire pile by train tracks near Richmond and Lewis streets around 5 p.m. Monday.
  • One firefighter was injured and taken to the hospital.

One firefighter was hurt during a tire fire near the Betsy Ross Bridge.

The two-alarm fire started at a large tire pile by train tracks near Richmond and Lewis streets in Philadelphia around 5 p.m. Monday. SkyForce10 captured large flames, plumes of smoke and traffic backed up near the area.

The fire initially closed the Betsy Ross Bridge in both directions. All lanes later reopened with a 25 mph speed restriction.

Firefighters were able to bring the flames under control. One firefighter suffered minor injuries and was taken to the hospital.

Fire crews had to deal with bitter cold temperatures and icy conditions, making it difficult to fight the fire.

"It's extremely harsh," Philadelphia Second Alarmers Chief Greg Masi said. "It's not bad when the temperatures are cold but when you have a wind that's whipping it just really makes it much more difficult for these guys to be operating for long periods of time."

Two SEPTA buses pulled up near the scene. Firefighters jumped on board throughout the night to dry off, eat food and stay warm.

Firefighters will remain at the scene overnight into Tuesday morning. They continue to investigate the cause.

Contact Us