LODD Sharon Springs, NY

[RWC130 594]

Updated: 05-14-2004 03:52:09 PM

Sharon Springs, New York State Firefighter Collapses While Battling House Fire

Albany Times Union News Staff

Courtesy of The Albany Times Union

SHARON SPRINGS -- A firefighter died after apparently collapsing while battling a house fire that was ignited by lightning, authorities said.

Jeffrey W. Howell, 42, a member of the Sharon Springs Fire Department, was one of the first firefighters at the scene of a farmhouse that caught fire just after 5 p.m. Thursday. He was working outside the house and suffered heat exhaustion when he collapsed, authorities said.

Lightning that struck the house at 503 Gilberts Corners Road came from a series of thunderstorms that rolled through the region late Thursday afternoon, causing flooding and other damage.

Howell previously was a firefighter at the Carlisle Fire Department.

[1075thebox 1]

Thoughts and prayers are with him and his family.

[Guest pentax02839]

my thoughts and prayers go to the family

[Guest CFDFASTleader]

Another reminder to all of us-eat right, exercise and take care of yourself.

Thoughts and prayers to the family.