PFD Line of Duty Deaths
January 31, 1921 - LODDs
Providence Fire Department. Providence, RI
Lieutenant Thomas H. Kelleher, 32 - Engine Co. 2
Fireman Arthur Cooper, 45 - Engine Co. 13
Fireman John I. Tague, 33 - Ladder No. 1
Lieutenant Kelleher and Firemen Cooper and Tague died of the injuries they sustained while operating at the four story Washington building fire at 88 Mathewson Street after they became trapped on the roof and blinded by smoke. The front wall collapsed and they were thrown into the fiery pit of the building. Occupying the four story building on the first floor was a restaurant, on the second a billiard parlor, while a bowling alley and dance hall occupied the remainder. Lieutenant Michael J. Kiernan would also died later on February 5, 1921 from the injuries he sustained on this day.