For Immediate Release

Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2016

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Great Barrington Officials Recognize First Responders, Volunteers Involved in Dresser Ave. Fire

GREAT BARRINGTON — Selectboard Chairman Sean Stanton and Town Manager Jennifer Tabakin would like to recognize the brave work of the first responders who were on scene at the Dresser Avenue fire over the weekend and thank the volunteers who assisted with support services.

On Saturday, Dec. 10, at 2:51 p.m., the Great Barrington Fire Department responded to 26 Dresser Ave for a fire. Heavy smoke and flames engulfed the first floor of the home, with extension to the second floor.

Lead rescuers at the fire include Police Sgt. Adam Carlotto, Officer Samuel Stolzar, Massachusetts State Police Trooper Brian Clay and Great Barrington Firefighter Ricky Aloisi. They arrived within minutes and learned that a 76-year-old man was trapped inside. They were able to get the man to safety by removing him from a first-floor window.

“I am proud of the heroic actions of the police officers and firefighter who made the rescue,” Fire Chief Charlie Burger said. “They risked their lives to save someone else’s.”

“They showed exemplary bravery in what they did,” Police Chief William Walsh said. “Without hesitation, they entered a dangerous environment to do their job. Had a few more moments gone by, this would have been a tragic ending. I’m very proud of their courage and dedication.”

Less than 15 hours later, police and fire returned to the Dresser Ave. home after it caught fire again, leaving the residence completely destroyed. All seven of the occupants are now displaced.

Berkshire Hills Regional School District Guidance Counselor Dom Sacco, the Multicultural BRIDGE group and the American Red Cross immediately reached out to the family to offer and coordinate support services.

Also on the scene were the Great Barrington Fire Department Support Team, led by Deborah Ball, with Jenn Baily, Betty Burger, Heather Barbieri, Tammy Touponce and others. They served more than 100 sandwiches, coffee, chips, pizza and drinks to over 50 firefighters on Saturday, who then returned on Sunday, using funds donated to purchase food for the responders.

Ed May, Great Barrington’s building inspector, was also on scene this weekend. Thank you to Joe Wilkinson Excavating, which reported to the site on Sunday to do critical demolition work.

“This was a true collaborative effort by multiple departments and community groups throughout Great Barrington,” Town Manager Tabakin said. “I want to commend first responders for their bravery this weekend and thank volunteers who reached out to assist police and firefighters on scene, as well as those who are working with the family to help them adjust following the fire.”

Great Barrington has a professionally trained, call volunteer fire department. If you wish to serve your community, consider volunteering and pick up an application at the Great Barrington Fire Station.

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