Providence Firefighter Injured in Elevator Shaft Fall

Veteran firefighter taken to hospital with serious injuries after incident during power outage rescue.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 3:05am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A Providence, Rhode Island firefighter was seriously injured after falling about 10 feet into an elevator shaft while responding to a report of a person trapped during a power outage at the Dominca Manor building on Atwells Avenue. The firefighter was transported to Rhode Island Hospital with head and leg injuries, but is expected to recover.

Why it matters

Firefighter safety and rescue operations are critical public services, and this incident highlights the risks and challenges they can face, especially in older buildings during emergencies. The fall also raises questions about elevator safety protocols and building maintenance.

The details

According to officials, the Providence Fire Department responded to a report of a person trapped in an elevator at the Dominca Manor building due to a power outage. While working to free the trapped person, a veteran firefighter fell about 10 feet down the elevator shaft, sustaining serious injuries to his head and leg. The firefighter was alert and conscious when transported to Rhode Island Hospital, and is expected to recover.

  • The incident occurred on Monday, March 17, 2026.

The players

Providence Fire Department

The local fire department that responded to the emergency call and rescue operation.

Dominca Manor

The apartment building where the incident took place, located on Atwells Avenue in Providence, Rhode Island.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“He was alert and conscious at the time he was transported.”

— Providence Fire Department Spokesperson

What’s next

Officials will investigate the cause of the power outage and the safety protocols in place for elevator rescues to determine if any changes or improvements are needed to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the dangers and unpredictable nature of firefighter rescue operations, and the importance of ongoing training, equipment maintenance, and building safety measures to protect first responders who put their lives on the line to serve their communities.