04/11/2021
April 11th, 1944, Fireman Edward Hawkes of Engine Co. 9 died in the Line of Duty.
At 7:45 P.M., an incident at the Statler Hotel at 107 Delaware Ave. began to unfold. Two Hotel employees became trapped in the conveyor room when overcome by Carbon Monoxide fumes while investigating smoke.
At 7:50 P.M. , Engine 13 , Ladder 2 and the 1st Battalion Chief were dispatched to investigate. Upon arrival, crews were informed that two employees were unconscious in the basement room.Fireman attempted to enter the area, but we're quickly overcome. With numerous members down, the Box was requested to the scene around 8 P.M.
As more men began to attempt rescues, they too were overcome. Valiant efforts to rescue both Firemen and civilians were underway.
Commissioner Tubridy responded and he too tried to enter the shaftway, but was unable due to the many unconscious men.
A lifeline was set in place for members to follow in and out of the hotel. Men staggered to the street severely overcome, yet mustered the strength to go back in and aid the fallen.
A plan was soon devised to breach a wall into the conveyor room. As members began to remove their comrades from the shaftway, others worked to breach the wall to reach the trapped civilians in the conveyor room.
Oxygen and ambulances were brought in from across the city. Firemen refused to be transported until everyone was out. Inhalators were used to replenish oxygen in the deprived men.
Finally, the conveyor room was accessed. Two civilians and three Firemen were found unconscious. They were removed to the street and worked on diligently.
Fireman Edward Hawkes of Engine Co. 9 , had life saving efforts performed on him until 10:45 P.M. A Doctor on scene said " the men were tireless, we could work forever and the results would be the same, it's no use." Hawkes comrades refused to give up and administered O2 for yet another hour, before he was pronounced. Last Rites were administered at the scene.
In addition to Fireman Hawkes, a Civilian, Frederick Kicks, the Hotel Coal Passer was also Killed.
Fireman Hawkes was 27 years old and the father of two small children.
19 Members of the Buffalo Fire Department including one Auxiliary Fireman were overcome and transported.
Many meritorious awards were given for actions taken that night. "UT VIVANT ALII"!!!
Three different style masks were tried yet only one proved to work in the environment encountered.
The final determination was that the ashes on the conveyor should have been extinguished before being moved , thus reducing the production of Carbon Monoxide.
A hotel patron whom had ordered a Scotch and Soda and complained it was taking too long, was informed of the acts of bravery taking place below. When told of the situation and that men were dying she simply stated " What are you trying to do, kid me"!
