SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509)625-7002

Car crashes into Teacher's Credit Union

Incident #:  2011031551
Date of Incident:  8/8/2011
Issuing Officer:  Bruce Moline/Battalion Chief
Narrative:
On August 8th, 2011 at 12:45 P.M. the Spokane Fire Department responded to 820 E. 29th the Teacher's Credit Union on the report of a vehicle that struck the building and a possible fire inside. 4 engine companies, 2 ladder companies, a rescue unit and 2 battalion chiefs responded. Upon arrival it was found that there were two elderly occupants still inside the vehicle that were injured. Fire crews began an immediate search of the interior of the building making sure all occupants had evacuated and to locate any signs of fire. They encountered smoke inside and discovered an arcing electrical meter from the impact of the vehicle. The patients inside the car were treated by an SFD paramedic and his crew along with another crew trained in Basic Life Support. They rapidly removed the patients and began treating their minor injuries. The Avista Company arrived and shut off the power so fire crews could start digging into the walls to search for hidden fire. Fortunately, the fire was limited to the arcing meter and did not extend into the wall or attic space above. Spokane Police were also on scene and are currently investigating. At this time, the cause of the impact appears to be an improperly operated motor vehicle. While fire crews were still on the scene, the credit union was very busy with making arrangements for repairs to the building and to restore their electrical power.
Cause:
The driver lost control of his vehicle in the credit union's parking lot.
Damage:
Damage to exterior and interior walls including framework and electrical conduit and wiring.
# Firefighters Responding: 24
Dollar Loss: $10,000

End Of Release
For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002