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Mayor Sherry Capello of Lebanon, Pennsylvania, provided more information about the significant fire that occurred over the weekend at Simone Photography on Cumberland Street. The fire, which began in the basement, was reported on Saturday (December 13) shortly after 9:30 p.m. and had already caused the first floor to collapse by the time firefighters arrived.
According to the Lebanon City Fire Department, the blaze was severe enough to require a fourth alarm and took more than 20 fire companies eight hours to control. The fire displaced 14 people and two cats, and severely damaged Simone Photography along with five neighboring businesses, which have been condemned pending restoration. Mayor Capello expressed her commitment to helping those affected, stating, "Together, we will restore and rebuild this important block of historic Lebanon."
Two firefighters were injured during the incident. One firefighter from Myerstown declined treatment, while a Lebanon firefighter was hospitalized with second-degree burns but has since been released, as reported by Local21 News.
The Pennsylvania State Police Fire Marshal's Office is currently investigating the cause of the fire. Mayor Capello commended the swift and professional response of the Lebanon City Fire Department and other emergency services. She emphasized the city's resilience and determination to support the affected businesses and individuals in rebuilding efforts.