The Avondale Fire Company was dispatched around 2250 hours for a working commercial fire assisting the Hockessin Fire Company at the WSFS Bank on Lancaster Pike in Hockessin. A-19 arrived with fire showing from the charlie side. Engine 23-1 arrived as the third due engine and took the second hydrant assignment in front of Two Cousins Pizza, laying 200’ of 5” supply hose. Engine 23-1 was initially RIT but with the lack of manpower was tasked to go to division two (second floor) and open up the walls to assist the hoseline companies with finding the fire since they were met by medium heat and very dark and smokey rooms. Crew began to open up the second floor and found fire in the walls and ceiling on the charlie side. The main fire was knocked down and crews checked for extension. Engine 23-1 produced an 1 ¾" line to assist the roof crew.
After Engine 1's crew took a break and completed rehab, the crew went back to the second floor and performed overhaul and the final wet down. Rescue 23 also made the response and they secured Engine 1's hydrant.

The engine crew operated for just over 3 hours.

Thank you Modena and Christiana (Lancanster) Fire Companies for providing coverage to the Avondale district during this incident.