Crime & Safety

Ellington and Somers Send Aid to Massachusetts

Both departments lent aid to the towns ravaged by Wednesday's tornadoes.

In the wake of tornadoes that ripped across Massachusetts, both Ellington and Somers sent rescue personnel to aid in the recovery effort.

According to Chief Gary Schiessl, one rescue truck was dispatched to Monson, MA to assist with search duties. He said that they were sent out at approximately 6 p.m. and returned to the West Stafford staging area around 9 p.m.

In addition, one fire truck was sent to cover the East Longmeadow station, but they were returned shortly thereafter Schiessl said.

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He said that a crew of about 15-20 firefighters and EMS members manned the Somers Fire station until 9 p.m.

Ellington sent a crew to Monson also and was still operating into the early morning hours on Thursday.

Find out what's happening in Ellington-Somerswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

According to Chief Michael Varney, Ellington sent a ladder truck, an engine-tank, a heavy rescue and a special hazards unit. Units were also standing by at the stations in Ellington.

Varney said that in addition, an ambulance was sent and the sent an engine.

He added that the State Fire Plan was activated and assisted Massachusetts through Tolland County – Vernon, Union, Stafford, Somers, East Windsor and Tolland.

The Boston Globe is reporting that four people have been killed, two in West Springfield, one in Springfield, and one in Brimfield. State Police said 33 people were injured in Springfield alone, including five seriously.

According to MassLive.com, a state of emergency has been declared in Massachusetts and the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Massachusetts National Guard have been deployed.

WWLP.com says that about 1,000 National Guard troops have been deployed to command areas in Springfield, Ware, and Worcester.

According to the site, 25 Massachusetts state troopers have been dispatched to help police in Monson, Sturbridge, and Southbridge. Troopers are assisting with search and rescue operations, road closures, detours, and roadway clearing.

MassLive says that schools are closed in Springfield, Wilbraham, Hampden and Westfield - including Westfield State University.

WGGB.com says that 20 towns were affected by the tornadoes, including physical damage to property, streets, power lines, and the lives of families.

Here are some stunning photos from the Hartford Courant.


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