At 2:35 a.m. on February 12, the Yulan Fire Department was responded to a reported structure fire near St. Anthony's Church. Assistant Chief Haas (Car 3) arrived within minutes and learned of many calls reporting a fully involved house fire. While arriving, the Narrowsburg-Lava Fire Department, Highland Lake Fire Department, and Lumberland Fire Department all requested mutual help due to the visible glow from the fire.

Chief Schadt (Car 1) took command upon arrival. Additional resources included the Bethel FAST team, Shohola tankers, and personnel from the Sparrow Bush Fire Department and the Port Jervis Fire Department. Crews worked till almost noon. Highland Ambulance Service, the Town of Highland Highway Department, and New York State Police, Sullivan County Fire Investigators, Sullivan County 911, NGS Construction, and the Yulan Country Store. all assisted.