DREXEL HILL, Pa. (KYW Newsradio) — Officials have identified the firefighter who died after a fire tore through an Upper Darby apartment complex Saturday morning.
“The officers and members of The Lansdowne Fire Company regret to announce the passing of long-time member Tony Rowley (58),” the fire company wrote in a Facebook post Monday.
They say Rowley lived in the Llanerch Place Apartments on the 3200 block of Township Line Road with his wife and had been dealing with medical issues when the fire broke out around 11 a.m. He and his wife were taken to a hospital for treatment, but he died from his injuries. His wife also suffered severe injuries and is still in the hospital.
The Lansdowne Fire Company said Rowley served as vice president, ambulance lieutenant and firefighter.
At least six others, including an Upper Darby Township firefighter, were injured. That firefighter has since been released from the hospital. Roughly 75 residents have been displaced, as there is significant fire, smoke, and water damage throughout the building.
“Lansdowne Firefighters would like to express our deepest gratitude to the UDFD for their valiant efforts attempting to save Tony and his family, truly heroic. Please keep the Rowley Family in your thoughts and prayers,” the Lansdowne Fire Company wrote.
The Red Cross said the building's property manager is providing temporary housing to those displaced. Investigators are still working to determine a fire cause.