Hanover Police Department Responds to Structure Fire 4/11/23

On April 11, 2023, at approximately 1:53 am, a 911 call from a passerby reported a large fire at a residence in the area of Whiting Street and North Street. Hanover Police Officers arrived on the scene and determined that a barn located on the property of 479 Whiting Street was fully engulfed in flames.

Shift Supervisor Shaun Doyle and Officer Adam Hil immediately approached the home and began banging on the door to alert anyone inside of the fire. The officers were able to raise the elderly homeowner, who was asleep at the time, and safely evacuated him from the home. While doing so, the officers learned that a tenant resided in an apartment within the detached barn.

Upon learning this information, and fearing for the tenant's safety, Officers Doyle, Hill, and Noah Clapp made entry through a door on the left of the barn in an attempt to alert/rescue the tenant. Upon entry, the officers encountered a thick, heavy smoke condition making it difficult to see or breathe and forcing them back outside for air. The officers made entry a second time through another door and began calling out the tenant's name as they searched for her. The tenant heard the officers calling her name, at which time she yelled back, alerting officers to the proximity of her location in the rear of the building. The officers were able to locate the door to the apartment, made contact with the tenant, and safely evacuated her as Hanover Firefighters arrived on scene. The tenant was evaluated and treated by EMS on scene.

The responding officers suffered minor smoke inhalation but otherwise suffered no injuries. Due to the quick action and life-saving efforts of Officer Doyle, Officer Hil, and Officer Clapp, a tragedy was averted. Their collective effort and disregard for their personal safety is a testament to their dedication and professionalism. This fire is being investigated by the Hanover Fire and Police Joint Fire Investigation Unit with assistance from the State Police assigned to the State Fire Marshall's Office.

Timothy A. Kane, Chief of Police
Hanover Police Department