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Last week, the Beecher Fire Protection District, part of MABAS Division 27, assisted in responding to a major fire in Lowell, Indiana. According to Beecher Fire Chief Dave Lagesse, their Truck 405, a 2006 Pierce Enforcer equipped with a 75-foot aluminum ladder, pumped over 640,000 gallons of water onto the blaze during a 10-hour operation. The fire broke out last Thursday, August 10th, at the former Rieter Automotive building located at 101 W. Oakley Avenue. As reported by The Northwest Indiana Times, the incident occurred when a construction crew, believed to be moving equipment and cutting beams, accidentally ignited a massive fire inside the vacant facility.
According to Jimmy Harper, a project manager for BRT Indiana LLC, the company handling the recycling and sales operations within the building, the sprinkler system had been deactivated, making it impossible to contain the flames using portable extinguishers. Harper, who was present alongside 11 other workers, noted how quickly the situation escalated.
The full article can be found [here]. There’s also a YouTube video documenting the event [here], along with further updates available [here].
Chief Lagesse shared some striking images taken during the firefighting efforts, showcasing Truck 405 in action. Unfortunately, he couldn’t identify the photographer. If anyone recognizes the photographer, we’d appreciate it if you could let us know so we can give proper credit.
Attached below are several photos capturing the intense moments from the scene. Each image highlights the heroic efforts of firefighters battling the inferno. Despite the chaos, these visuals provide a glimpse into the dedication and skill required to manage such a catastrophic event. The photographer remains anonymous, but their contribution has helped document this unforgettable day in Lowell’s history.
[Image description: Two elevated master streams work together to douse the flames at the Rieter Automotive property. Photographer unknown.]
[Image description: A firefighter from Beecher rests at the tip of Truck 405’s ladder, directing water toward the raging fire. Photographer unknown.]
[Image description: Another angle shows Beecher and Lowell Fire Department aerial units operating in unison. Photographer unknown.]
[Image description: A dramatic moment captures what appears to be a fireball erupting near a firefighter managing the master stream. Photographer unknown.]
[Image description: As conditions shift, the firefighter adjusts the master stream, adapting to the evolving dynamics of the fire. Photographer unknown.]
[Image description: Heavy flames tear through the roof of the Rieter Automotive building, showcasing the intensity of the blaze. Photographer unknown.]
[Image description: Truck 405 worked tirelessly for 10 hours, delivering critical water support throughout the incident. Photographer unknown.]
These images not only highlight the severity of the fire but also pay tribute to the firefighters who risked their lives to protect the community. If you recognize the photographer or have any additional information about the event, please reach out. Let’s honor those who captured this pivotal moment for posterity.
June 17, 2025