A firefighter died from an electric shock while responding to a fire that destroyed three food stalls and a sari-sari store in Pagbilao, Quezon.

According to Fire Senior Inspector Ariel Racelis, Officer in Charge of the Pagbilao Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the fire was first noticed by two caretakers who were awakened by smoke and heat. 

Investigation continues to determine the exact cause of the fire, as of this writing. 

Firefighters managed to control and extinguish the flames within an hour, but a member of the Pagbilao BFP was electrocuted in the process.

Racelis said the firefighter got in contact with a live wire during the overhauling stage. This was the time when the fire had been almost put out completely.

“During po sa firefighting po, wala na po kasing [apoy], halos usok na lang po, [nasa] overhauling [stage] na po. Pumasok po siya, 'yun po pala ay may isa pa pong hindi pa po naipatay [o naputol na linya],” Racelis said.

The firefighter called for help but it was too late. He was found unconscious and passed away later.

The BFP has sent its condolences and assistance to the family.