During a daring rescue effort at a poultry plant in Kawle, Poland, an experienced volunteer firefighter fell into a smoke‑filled hall, dying in the blaze.
Fire Breaks Out in Poultry Processing Facility
On Wednesday, August 13, 2025, before 4:00 p.m., a fire erupted in the meat‑processing unit located on the attic of a poultry plant in Kawle, Kuyavian‑Pomeranian Voivodeship. The blaze quickly spread to other sections of the hall, forcing the evacuation of roughly 200 employees.
Tragic Incident During Rescue Operation
During the firefighting effort, an experienced volunteer firefighter from OSP Sierakowice fell approximately 7–8 metres into the smoke‑filled interior of the hall while attempting to assess the situation. Initial voice contact with him was suddenly severed, and his body was later found during the search of the wreckage.
Rescue and Firefighting Actions
Extreme temperatures and a partially collapsed structure made it unsafe for responders to enter. Specialized units— including a high‑rise rescue team from JRG Rumia and a search‑and‑rescue squad from Gdańsk—provided additional support, while about 300 firefighters from PSP and OSP operated from the outside using heavy equipment.
Condolences from the State Fire Service
The Chief of the State Fire Service, Wojciech Kruczek, issued a statement of condolences to the firefighter’s family and to the volunteer fire department of Sierakowice, calling the loss a profound blow to the firefighting community.
Investigations and Aftermath
Approximately 3,000 m² of the hall and about 2 tonnes of ammonia were destroyed, prompting chemical monitoring and contamination detection. Medical and psychological support were provided to witnesses, and the regional prosecutor has opened an investigation into the incident’s cause.
Source: MiejskiReporter,
