Firefighter Injured Fighting Blaze At Former Pest Control Business

DETROIT (WWJ) - A Detroit firefighter has been injured fighting a fire on the city's east side Sunday morning. The firefighter suffered smoke inhalation at a fire on Mack near Chalmers. He was taken to St. John's Hospital.

The fire is at a former pest control company. Deputy Fire Chief Vincent Gibson says it was a hazmat fire.

He adds that with the city's financial troubles - the cuts are affecting the fire department.

"That has seriously depleted this side of town. I can't tell you exactly how many crews are here ... they've been moved around a bit, but it has put a serious damper on our manpower," said Gibson.

"It makes it harder on everybody ... less manpower and the guys have to work a little bit harder," he said.

Gibson says they have at least 20 fewer firefighters on the east side, saying that everybody has to work a little harder.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.