Early-Morning Three-Alarm Fire Destroys Home in Forest Hills Section of Hazle Township

Photo by Freeland Fire Department 136Engine 136 staged and operating during the early-morning structure fire response in the Forest Hills section of Hazle Township.

Photo by Freeland Fire Department 136A wide view of the fire scene shows heavy fire conditions as multiple agencies operate under second- and third-alarm assignments.

Photo by Freeland Fire Department 136Flames breach the roofline of the residence as firefighters continue aggressive suppression efforts.

Photo by Freeland Fire Department 136Thick smoke and fire conditions intensify as aerial and ground crews work to contain the blaze.
December 2, 2025 | Freeland Fire Department 136 — During the early morning hours, Hazle Township Fire was dispatched to a reported structure fire in the Forest Hills section of the township. Upon arrival, 141 Chief 3 Jason Zoshak confirmed a working fire and assumed command, requesting a second alarm due to the volume of fire and conditions on scene.
Freeland Fire Department 136 responded on the initial box with the rescue and command vehicle. Crews arrived and immediately sent manpower forward to assist with interior and exterior fire attack operations. As conditions escalated, command struck the third alarm, prompting the response of FFD Truck 136 along with numerous mutual aid companies.
The incident drew a large multi-county response, including tanker task forces from Luzerne, Carbon, and Schuylkill counties to support sustained water supply operations. Firefighters battled heavy fire conditions, intense heat, and thick smoke throughout the operation.
While committed to the structure fire, Freeland Fire Department was also dispatched to assist police with a separate incident in the 500 block of Centre Street, requiring coordination of available resources during an already demanding morning.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. No firefighter injuries were reported.