A special visitor was at station 5 today to meet with the Toledo Firefighters that rescued him from a house fire at 253 Willard Street in east Toledo.
In the early morning hours of May 2, 2015, T.F.R.D. firefighters were called for the report of a house on fire. The first unit on scene was met with a home heavily involved with fire. Bystanders told them that there was still residents inside.
A quick knockdown of the fire by Engine 6 followed by aggressive interior attack and search ensued. The crew from Engine 5 located the two brothers, Joseph Fazenbaker and Michael Rheinbolt. With help from firefighters from station 6, 7 and 13, they removed the victims and began the work of trying to save their lives.
Unfortunately, Joseph succumbed to his injuries, while Michael continued his fight for the next several months eventually surviving this tragic event.
Michael and his family enjoyed a visit that included a tour of station 5 and the apparatus housed there. It was a very rewarding visit for our firefighters as well, being able to chat with Michael and his family.