Attic fire destroys Johnstown press box, locker rooms

JOHNSTOWN – The Sunday morning fire that destroyed the press box, locker rooms and concession stand at Johnstown's Frank Chambers Stadium originated in an attic space, according to the State Fire Marshal's office.

A spokeswoman for the State Fire Marshal said no foul play is suspected in the fire, and specifics of the case remain under investigation.

Monroe Township Fire Chief Dudley Wright said his department received the call at 3:15 a.m. Sunday and by the time crews arrived, the blaze was fully involved.

"It burned up the locker rooms, concession stand and press box," Wright said.

"Due to the time of day, people weren't out and about, so by the time we got to it, it was very large," he said. "The stadium is tucked back in behind the high school, so I doubt anyone could see it even from Route 37. The fire had a chance to grow before anyone saw it."

Units from Monroe Township, Plain Township (New Albany), St. Albans, Harlem Township, Granville and Hartford Township responded, Wright said.

"The cold weather made things more challenging, but it was contained very quickly," Wright said. "Our last unit left about 7:30 a.m., but most units had gone by 6 a.m."

Wright said he did not know if the football team's equipment was destroyed, but said it may have been sent out for reconditioning.

Attempts to reach Johnstown school officials on Monday were unsuccessful.

"The community is obviously very upset, very saddened by this," Wright said. "The good thing is, no one was hurt."

dweidig@newarkadvocate.com

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