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Friday, January 24, 2020

Elderly man dies, woman injured in Allegany County fire

A tragic scene unfolded not long after 4 a.m. Friday. Bolivar firefighters were called to 192 Bells Brook Road in the Town of Genesee. Firefighters were told an elderly man was trapped inside the home. Allegany County Fire Coordinator and Emergency Manager Jeff Luckey confirmed that a male, "in his 70's," was pulled from the house trailer. CPR was initiated but the victim was pronounced dead at Olean General Hospital. A woman who also lived in the home was also overcome and taken to Olean General in "stable condition." There was a large fire department response, including departments from Bolivar, Richburg, Allentown, Shinglehouse, Westons Mills, Portville and a FAST team from Cattaraugus County. Luckey said the fire was determined to be "accidental" in nature. He said the home was equipped with smoke detectors, which alerted the occupants to the fire. Luckey said there was little structural damage but there was smoke and heat damage. He said the trailer had multiple additions. Luckey said he believe firefighters from Bolivar and Portville assisted in the recovery of the man. Luckey said "any type of loss is hard to take...not being able to assist." He added that "firefighters did every thing they could do...they make quick entry...found the victim, removed him and started CPR." State Police were making family notifications and the names of those involved have not yet been released. The Red Cross was called in to assist the survivor.
 UPDATE: State Police Press Release:
PRESS RELEASE

On January 24, 2020 at approximately 4:30 a.m., Troopers out of SP Amity responded to a house fire on Bells Brook Road in the town of Genesee.  Further investigation revealed that the caller heard the smoke alarm and located the burning computer.  The caller attempted to put the fire out and was unsuccessful.  The caller then attempted to move Charles E. Hollowell, 76, but could not move him or get his wheel chair.  The caller exited the residence to contact emergency services.  Charles E. Hollowell, 76 was found deceased in the residence.    

No foul play determined.