Stamford Firefighters Rescue several residents from upper floors of apartment complex after stair collapse

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Stamford Fire Department Conducts Successful Rescue Operation

Stamford, Connecticut — April 17, 2026 — The Stamford Fire Department successfully completed a technical rescue operation earlier today following a complex incident in the city.

At approximately 6:45 pm, units were dispatched to 37 Greenwich Avenue after reports of a deck that collapsed stranding multiple residents in the structure. Upon arrival, first responders found a deck and stairway leading to the upper floor apartments had pulled away from the building and was not safe to use. Reports were that 3 of the 4 units served by the stairs were occupied.

Firefighters from multiple companies, including Rescue, Engine, and Ladder units, worked collaboratively to stabilize the scene. Firefighters used a ground ladder to reach the 2nd floor landing which led to the 4 apartments where the victims were stranded in order to make contact and assess the stranded people.

Once firefighters were in contact with the stranded residents a tower ladder was placed and set up to use to remove the people 2 at a time from the 2nd and 3rd floor apartments. A total of 7 residents were removed this way.

Stamford EMS units stood by in case any of the residents needed medical attention after removal and in the event of firefighter injuries. Ultimately neither the residents nor firefighters needed medical assistance.

The Stamford Police Department assisted with scene support and traffic management.

The rescue operation was completed in approximately one hour, with no injuries reported among responding personnel.

Due to the nature of the incident the City of Stamford Building Department was requested to respond to the scene along with a representative from the Stamford Fire Marshal Division. Ultimately the City of Stamford Health Department was also called to the scene. Due to the hazards present and the condition of the stairway involved as well as the adjacent stairway the above-named agencies condemned 8 apartments. The displaced residents of these apartments are being provided temporary housing by the management company for the building involved.

“This incident demonstrates the high level of training, coordination, and professionalism of our firefighters and partner agencies,” said the Incident Commander, Deputy Fire Chief John Pritchard. “Technical rescues require precision and teamwork, and today’s outcome reflects the dedication of everyone involved.”