Firefighter injured in July 4 house fire

[Marion County Fire Rescue]

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Posted July 5, 2024 |

On the evening of the Fourth of July, a Marion County Fire Rescue firefighter was injured while battling a structure fire in a residential area of north Ocala, according to MCFR.

Lt. Nicholas Ghigliotty sustained injuries shortly after entering the structure when fire conditions deteriorated around 8:04 p.m. on Thursday.

“Firefighter Paramedics treated him on scene and transported him to Shands Teaching Hospital in Gainesville,” said MCFR. “He was evaluated, treated and released from the hospital at approximately 10:30 p.m.”

MCFR units were dispatched at 7:58 p.m. to the structure fire in the 10200 Block of North U.S. Highway 441 in Ocala. Callers reported that the structure was engulfed in flames and the smoke was visible from miles away.

The fire engulfed a large portion of the home, centered on the garage, and spread to two vehicles outside. Additionally, a propane tank exploded near the fire, according to MCFR.

Battalion Chief 1 was the first on scene, shortly followed by Engine 11. Engines from Stations 19, 1, 2, 9 and 21 reported to the scene to assist.

The cause and origin of the fire have not yet been identified. The State Fire Marshall’s Office is investigating the incident.

No other firefighters or civilians other than Ghigliotty were injured.