We regret to advise you of the Line of Duty Death of New Carlisle (LaPorte County) Assistant Fire

Chief Jamie Middlebrook.

Late last night, area fire companies (not far from South Bend, IN on US 20) responded to a commercial building fire. At some point, as Chief Middlebrook and another Firefighter were setting up a portable ground monitor within a section of the structure, and while inside, there as a catastrophic collapse of the building..

One Firefighter was rescued from the fire and taken to a local hospital (treated and released with a leg fracture) however Chief Middlebrook could not be saved. The fire occurred at K-Fex, a septic pumping business. There are reports that there had been explosions at the fire prior to the collapse. 

Chief Middlebrook was a career EMT for New Carlisle EMS. He leaves behind his wife, Julie and his Father Robert-who is a 40 years member and past Chief of the department. 

Our condolences to the family of Chief Middlebrook as well as the members and friends of the department, Jamie was a friend of the crew here at www.FireFighterCloseCalls.com . RIP.

HERE is video and photos from the scene:

http://www.wndu.com/home/headlines/Fire-crews-battle-blaze-at-barn-270087301.html 

We will have much more on this tragic loss later.

MISSOURI TAXPAYERS SAY NO!

Take a look at this piece regarding numerous tax proposals going up in "flames" (sorry) as fire and ambulance districts attempt tax hikes in Missouri. 

http://m.stltoday.com/news/local/metro/most-tax-hikes-to-fund-fire-ambulance-services-are-rejected/article_c4702b66-b6ef-5482-8693-e9551021af84.html?utm_medium=twitter&utm_source=twitterfeed&mobile_touch=true

Take Care. Be Careful. Pass It On.

BillyG

The Secret List 8/6/2014-0530 Hours