FIRE: Couple rescued in Rochester Road fire

Local News

July 6, 2009

Staff Reports The Lockport Union-Sun %26 Journal Mon Jul 06, 2009, 12:38 AM EDT

Two elderly Rochester Road residents were rescued from a fire in Middleport at 12:40 a.m. Sunday. Donald, 71, and Marion Lepkoske, 70, were transported to Medina Hospital where they were treated for smoke inhalation and released.

George Richardson, a passerby saw a barrel on fire behind the house and as he got closer he saw the back of the house on fire at 9464 Rochester Road, according to the Niagara County Sheriff’s report. Richardson went to the front door and broke the window in an attempt to notify the residents.

Middleport Police officers Roland Johnson and Brandon Annable arrived and both entered the smoke-charged house in an attempt to rescue the two trapped occupants. Johnson said that the smoke was so thick in the house that he had to listen for Richardson yelling at the doorway to guide every one out to safety.

On the second attempt, Johnson and Annable were able to locate the Lepkoskes.

“He did a really good job, calling in and standing by,” Johnson said of Richardson. “It was hot and there was black smoke through the whole house. We could only see a couple feet in front of us. I was glad the guy who called in stayed at the door.”

According to Johnson, Richardson drove by thought it was a bonfire. Richardson broke the door down, but couldn’t get in.

The Lepkoskes were in a downstairs bedroom asleep, according to Johnson. Donald Lepkoske suffered cuts on his foot and was given stitches.

Middleport Fire Chief Steve Cooley took command of the fire and requested mutual aid from the Medina, Gasport, Hartland, Wolcottsville and Barker Fire Companies and two Tri-Town ambulances.

The fire was quickly knocked down, but there was extensive damage to the back of the house and smoke damage. Johnson and Annable were treated at the scene for smoke inhalation.

The Niagara County Origin and Cause Team was requested. The fire does not appear suspicious in cause, according to the report. Mr. and Mrs. Lepkoske are staying at relatives.

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