Highland Firefighters Battle Flames And Save Life in House Fire

A late-night house fire turned into a dramatic rescue after firefighters were told someone was still trapped inside a burning home in Highland, NY.

House Fire in Highland, NY

According to the Highland Fire District Chief Jeffrey DiMetro, it started just after midnight on Friday, March 27th, 2026, when firefighters were dispatched to a reported structure fire on Vineyard Avenue in the Town of Lloyd, NY.

While crews were en route, they were told at least one person was trapped inside.

Upon arrival, the first unit found a heavy fire coming from two sides of the home at 344 Vineyard Ave, and quickly called for a second alarm, bringing in additional departments to assist.

Person Trapped Inside

Officers from the Lloyd Police Department were already on scene and confirmed that two occupants had made it out safely, but they also told firefighters that someone was still trapped inside and provided their approximate last known location.

Moments later, Highland firefighters made a split-second decision that likely saved a life.

Firefighters Jump Into Action

Three firefighters entered the home through a window without the protection of a hose line and began searching the first floor for the trapped occupant. Thankfully, they were able to quickly locate the individual and get them out of the burning house.

Once outside, firefighters immediately began emergency medical care before transferring the patient to the New Paltz Rescue Squad, who were already treating the other occupants.

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Fire crews remained on scene battling the flames for over an hour before getting the fire under control.

Scene Cleared

Firefighters continued extensive overhaul operations at the scene into the early morning hours, with crews finally clearing the scene around 5:30 a.m. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.

Multiple agencies assisted at the scene, including fire departments from the City of Poughkeepsie, Milton, Esopus, New Paltz, and Clintondale, along with local police, emergency services, and Central Hudson Gas & Electric.