Firefighter dies in row home blaze

PHILADELPHIA » A city firefighter – a Delaware County native and longtime Springfield volunteer – was killed while battling an inferno that engulfed a row home in North Philadelphia early Saturday.

Lt. Matthew LeTourneau, 42, a graduate of Cardinal O’Hara High School, died when he was trapped during a structural collapse and he became pinned under debris inside the burning structure, according to city Fire Commissioner Adam Thiel.

It took fellow firefighters about a half hour to extricate LeTourneu from the home. He was rushed to Temple University Hospital, where he died from his injuries at 11:07 a.m.

A civilian also died, and two other firefighters were injured. The other victim was not immediately identified. The extent of the injuries is not yet known.

LeTourneau worked with Philadelphia Fire Department Engine 45/Platoon A.

“Our hearts are breaking,” said Thiel. “And we are without words.”

Companies were dispatched to a row house fire at 8:51 a.m. and arrived on scene three minutes, officials said. Heavy smoke and fire was already visible coming from the structure. While fighting the blaze, there was a structural collapse and LeTourneau became pinned under debris.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Lt. LeTourneau was an 11-year veteran of the department. He had previously served at Engine 43 and Engine 57, and was promoted to lieutenant in 2015. He received a unit citation in 2010 and a letter of commendation for his service during the World Meeting of Families in 2015.

LeTourneau was a Delaware County native and 1993 graduate of Cardinal O’Hara High School in Springfield. He held an associate’s degree in fire science from Delaware County Community College. He lived in Springfield and is survived by his mother, other relatives and friends.

Mayor Jim Kenney released the following statement: “I am deeply saddened to hear of the loss of Lt. Matthew LeTourneau. I am grateful for his outstanding service to our city during his 11-year career. It is always a tragedy to lose a first responder in the line of duty. Lt. LeTourneau sacrificed his life trying to save others. Our firefighters demonstrate tremendous acts of heroism every single day. I extend my sincerest condolences to his family. Please keep his loved ones in your thoughts and prayers during this very difficult

Digital First Media Staff

time.”

To honor the memory of Lt. LeTourneau, all City of Philadelphia flags will be flown at half-staff for 30 days.

Funeral arrangements for LeTourneau are pending.

MATT LeTOURNEAU