The Ethiopian Community Association building on 44th and Chestnut the day after a fatal fire. (Photo: West Philly Local)

As investigations continue into the devastating fire that broke out early Tuesday morning (Oct. 13) near 44th and Chestnut Streets, community leaders and local officials are expressing their deep sorrow and offering support to those impacted.

The fast-moving blaze began just after 6 a.m. on the third floor of a multi-family building that hosts the Ethiopian Community Center and is owned by the Ethiopian Community Association of Greater Philadelphia. Philadelphia Fire Department crews arrived to find heavy smoke and intense flames pouring from the upper floors and roof of the building, according to reports. Firefighters brought the fire under control within roughly an hour, but the severe structural damage left the building uninhabitable.

Tragically, one man was pronounced dead at the scene on the third floor. His identity has not yet been publicly released pending family notification. Additionally, a Philadelphia firefighter sustained burns while battling the aggressive blaze and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

Two families were displaced by the fire. The American Red Cross Disaster Action Team responded to the scene to assist displaced residents. An adjacent property also sustained exterior damage, though no other injuries were immediately reported.

Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, whose 3rd District covers the area, shared a statement addressing the tragedy:

“I’m devastated that one of our neighbors perished in a fire early this morning. I’m keeping his loved ones in my thoughts during this tragic time, as well as everyone who was displaced or otherwise affected… I’m relieved that the firefighter who was injured is expected to make a full recovery.”

“This fire hits particularly hard because we spent years helping the Ethiopian Community Association of Greater Philadelphia raise funds to restore this building. This may be a setback, but we aren’t giving up. I’m committed to helping them rebuild better than before.”

The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Philadelphia Fire Department’s Fire Marshal Office.

Anyone affected by the fire or looking for assistance can reach out to the American Red Cross Greater Pennsylvania Region or local community support networks. We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.

UPDATE: A GoFundMe page has been created in support of one of the displaced tenants, Reese Anderson (aka Mauricedabarber) who lost his home and belongings after “heroically saving his father and neighbors.”