Fire Breaks out During Shacharis Shabbos Morning at Congregation Bais Torah in Suffern

by Rockland Daily Staff

A fire broke out during shacharis at  Congregation Bais Torah, located at 89 W. Carlton Road in Suffern. 

Emergency personnel were called to the location at 9:38 a.m. after the smell of smoke became evident. Firefighters from the Tallman Volunteer Fire Department who arrived at the scene within five minutes discovered the fire was confined to a small area under the roof of the building. 

After firefighters made multiple cuts through the roof and ceiling to locate the main body of the fire, it was successfully doused within thirty minutes. The building's occupants were all safely evacuated without injuries, although two firefighters suffered minor injuries which did not require treatment.

Tallman Volunteer Fire Department extinguished the fire. They were assisted by Suffern Volunteer Hose Co. #1, Monsey Fire Department, Hillcrest Fire Company No. 1, Sloatsburg Fire Department, Columbian Engine Co. #1, and Mahwah Fire Department. 

Also on the scene were the Ramapo Police Department, Rockland Paramedics, and Spring Hill Community Ambulance Corps. 

The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Photo Credit: Rockland Police Department