A lack of training, an unclear strategy and flawed communication contributed to the 2016 deaths of three Wilmington firefighters in Canby Park, according to a report published by federal investigators on Friday.
The report from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health is the result of an investigation launched within weeks of the Sept. 24, 2016, fire that claimed the lives of Lt. Jerry Fickes, Capt. Chris Leach and Lt. Ardythe Hope. Four others were injured.
Investigators studied the fire, which authorities say was arson, and the response to it by analyzing response records, inspecting equipment and conducting interviews. Their purpose is not to cast blame but rather to recommend ways to improve fire department operations.
The probe found several contributing factors that made the early morning basement fire a fatal event.