Fatality at Islip House Fire

Shortly after0800 on February 24, 2023, the Islip Fire Department was alerted fora house fire on Boston Avenue. First Assistant Chief Gunst arrived and confirmed heavy fire showing from the 1-4 cornerof a single-story ranch with a full walkout basement. The home’s occupants were unaccounted foras the fire was reported by neighbors. Islip crews mounted an aggressive interiorattack and primary search. Upon entry to the first floora victim was located and removed from the home but unfortunately succumbed to theirinjuries. Operations were hindered by heavy clutterin the the basement and attic, which led to delays in accessing much of the fire. The fire was not able to be declared undercontrol foran hourand 40 minutes. The cause of the fire was underinvestigation by the Suffolk County Police Department’s Arson and Homicide Squads as well as the Town of Islip Fire Marshal’s office. Mutual aid came from East Islip, Bay Shore, Brentwood, Islip Terrace, Central Islip, West Islip, West Sayville, East Brentwood, Hauppauge, Exchange Ambulance of the Islips, and Sayville Community Ambulance.

- Fire News photos by Richard Stark, FC 49 and Ken Bradbury; story by the Islip FD