News Releases

The Chattanooga Fire Department worked a small chemical spill at the BASF facility on Polymer Drive. The call came out at 1:33PM on 7/21/23. Multiple Green Shift companies responded, along with our Special Operations Division and hazmat team. Firefighters worked with BASF officials on the scene to mitigate the incident. Everything was contained to the property and there were no injuries. Our mutual aid partners are provided coverage at our fire halls while our crews were on this scene. HCEMS and CPD assisted. Chattanooga-Hamilton County Rescue is provided rehab for first responders working in the heat. By 4:30 PM, the spill was completely contained. No hazards were involved. Thanks to BASF for always working closely with the CFD on training and communication so that everyone is prepared and equipped to respond.

The Chattanooga Fire Department is releasing new details in connection with a recent East Chattanooga house fire. After receiving information from the Medical Examiner’s Office, investigators can now reveal that the accidental blaze claimed the life of a man living in the home. The fire started because a burner on the stove was left on. One man escaped the burning home without injury, but his roommate, Caleb Larkins, 32, did not make it out. The call came out 4:17 AM on 6/30/23 to a home in the 3900 block of Meadow Lane. A black column of smoke was visible as crews rushed to the location. Red Shift companies found the residence fully involved on arrival with flames coming out of every window and through the roof. A defensive attack was launched with 2.5” lines. A deck gun was used and then a ladder was positioned for a master stream. At one point, the roof collapsed and the floors crumbled. The structure was unstable and unsafe for firefighters to enter. Companies continued targeting hot spots throughout the morning. The Fire Investigation Division responded, along with Engine 15, Quint 6, Engine 4 and Battalion 3. Firefighters were on the scene for several hours working to fully extinguish the blaze. They located the victim in a bedroom and the Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed that Mr. Larkins passed away as a result of the fire. The CFD offers our condolences to his family and friends.

Thank you to Project Linus for their generous donation to the CFD! Their mission is to provide a sense of security and comfort to children who are seriously ill, traumatized, or otherwise in need, through gifts of new, handmade blankets. There are more than 300 chapters across the country, each one serving a local community. Each of our 26 companies will have a blanket on board, thanks to Project Linus.

The 2023 International Association of Black Professional Firefighters’ David J. Floyd Youth Camp at Booker T. Washington State Park was a major success. The camp was hosted by the local Chattanooga Chapter of the IABPFF. The annual camp was created in honor of the I.A.B.P.F.F.’s first President, David J. Floyd, who served in the NYFD. The camp teaches skills and values that campers can use and enjoy all their lives and fosters a tangible and tactile connection to nature that only comes from immersing oneself in it.

As part of the presentation, personnel in the Hamilton County Sherrif's Office School Resource Deputy Unit, SWAT Team, K-9 Unit, and Patrol Services gave demonstrations and discussed how they conduct their daily operations. HCSO deputies serving in the Hamilton County UAS Team were also onsite flying law enforcement drones and showcasing some of their aerial capabilities. Fist responders and industry leaders visited with campers during the week, leaving a lasting impact on participants.

“Participating in events like this youth camp helps to foster meaningful and lasting relationships between the HCSO and the citizens we proudly serve. Now, more than ever, it is important for law enforcement agencies to partner with organizations who seek to create positive opportunities to engage our youth and future community leaders,” stated Sheriff Austin Garrett.

Photo: HCSO