Five-alarm fire/ Four Houston firefighters killed

[Houstonia]

There's a major fire going on in southwest Houston right now with six firefighters injured, at least two in extremely critical condition and two in critical condition.

[url]abclocal.go.com/ktrk/story?section=news/local&id=9122467[/url]

Thoughts, prayers, and positive vibes go out to these firemen and their families.

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Firefighters are battling a five-alarm building fire in southwest Houston, where at least six firefighters have been injured.

The fire broke out just after noon at the Southwest Inn along the Southwest Freeway near Hillcroft.

An HFD spokesperson says four firefighters had become lost, but all have since been recovered. Two of them are in critical condition, and two are in extremely critical condition. All four have been transported to area hospitals.

Two other firefighters were taken to local hospitals for other injuries, or heat-related conditions. Their conditions are not known.

Witnesses tell Eyewitness News the fire began in a restaurant, although that has not been confirmed with officials. All patrons and employees of the restaurant got out safely.

The roof of the building has collapsed in areas, as the fire continues to travel through the building. The structure houses a sports bar as well.

Thick black smoke coming from building can be seen for miles. The feeder is closed to inbound traffic. The main lanes of the SW Freeway are still getting by, but traffic is heavy in the area.

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[cycloneye]

Is that close or far from where you guys will be at the workshop?

[Houstonia]

Is that close or far from where you guys will be at the workshop?

quite far - won't pose any problems for us.

[Houstonia]

Updated topic heading.

Four Houston firefighters were killed during a five-alarm fire this afternoon in southwest Houston.
http://abclocal.go.com/ktrk/story?section=news/local&id=9122467

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Officials confirm at least four firefighters have been killed battling a massive hotel fire in southwest Houston, making this the deadliest day in history for the Houston Fire Department.

The fire broke out just after noon at the Southwest Inn along the Southwest Freeway near Hillcroft.

According to a spokesperson for Houston Mayor Annise Parker, at least four firefighters have died, and five others are injured.

Records show that dating back to 1889, never before have so many HFD firefighters been killed in a single blaze.

Firefighters can be seen searching the interior of the destroyed building, and saluting, an honor given for a fallen comrade.

Witnesses tell Eyewitness News the fire began in a restaurant, although that has not been confirmed with officials. All patrons and employees of the restaurant reportedly got out safely.

The roof of the building has collapsed in areas. The structure houses a sports bar as well.

Thick black smoke coming from building could be seen for miles. The feeder is closed to inbound traffic. The main lanes of the SW Freeway are still getting by, but traffic is heavy in the area.

The Red Cross is on the scene providing assistance. Additionally, the 100 Club is supporting the victims and families. Anyone interested in donating can do so online at the100club.org

[southerngale]

So sad... the deadliest day in history for the Houston Fire Department. My thoughts and prayers go out to their families and friends.

[vbhoutex]

Most definitely a very sad day for Houston. Many prayers going up from the vb household for all affected!