A rapid fire destroyed several buildings at the beloved Hole in Wall Gang Camp in Ashford, Connecticut.
Ashford firefighters said they responded to an alarm and calls for smoke around 4:54 p.m. When they got there, they found a large fire in the main camp building. It is a large wooden structure with smaller interconnected areas inside.
It took about 90 minutes to contain the fire, officials said. The main building was destroyed, as well as a smaller adjoining building, but crew members were able to rescue the camp’s dining hall and sick bays.
Former campers and counselors recount how Hole in The Wall affected their lives after a fire destroyed four of the camp’s buildings Friday night.
According to Ashford’s deputy chief Tom Borgman, it appears the building was empty at the time. No injuries were reported.
The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp was founded by actor Paul Newman. This is a camp that offers a true summer camping experience for seriously ill children and programs for their families.
The camp has full medical facilities on site to give the children all the care they would normally receive in a hospital.
“We are saddened to share that there was a fire at The Hole in Wall Gang Camp tonight,” CEO James Canton said in a statement. “We are very grateful that no one was injured, but can confirm that our Arts & Crafts, Woodshop, Cooking Zone and Camp Store buildings were destroyed. We appreciate the quick response of the local fire department and Connecticut Police Troop C Although the cause of the fire is unknown at this time, it is known that The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp is a community dedicated to hope and healing, we will go through it the way we always have and always will do – as a family. ‘
Officials did not say whether the fire was considered suspicious. The Connecticut Police Fire and Explosion Unit is assisting firefighters in investigating the cause of the fire. Federal officials from ATF and the FBI also responded.
The investigation into the cause continues. Any witnesses to the fire are encouraged to call Police Force C in Connecticut.