Wreath-Laying Ceremony Marks 15 Years Since Fatal Hill District Church Fire

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PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – Pittsburgh firefighters were marching in the St. Patrick's Day parade 15 years ago when they were sent to a massive church fire in the Hill District.

The collapse of the bell tower at Ebenezer Baptist Church symbolized one of the most tragic fires in the history of the Pittsburgh Fire Bureau.

Two firefighters were killed and 27 others were injured.

Two wreaths were laid at the memorial inside the church on Saturday, honoring Battalion Chief Charles Brace and Master Firefighter Richard Stefanakis.

"It brings back memories and getting together and reflecting 15 years after the event... We will never forget these firefighters and the sacrifice they made to the community," Pittsburgh Public Safety Director Wendell Hissrich said.

Lieutenant Billy Jenkins was one of 77 firefighters who battled the flames that day.

"As a fireman who fought that fire that day, it's very humbling to be here today. I'm humbled and honored to be a Pittsburgh firefighter," he said.

An electrical fire in the basement spread up the walls, eventually destroying the 131-year-old building.

Chief Darryl Jones believes the bureau learned something from the tragedy.

"We also want to make sure that, moving forward, we are being safe as well as effective and efficient in maintaining the true culture and heritage of the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire in protecting our citizens and visitors," he said.

Ebenezer Baptist has since built a church on the same site.

Families of the fallen firefighters donated their boots and helmets for a permanent memorial not far from where the tower collapsed.

"Our hearts were broken that day. We appreciate the men that fought beside these men, and it just lets us understand every day what these men and women go through every day just to keep us safe," church administrator Deborah Parker said.