Today in Detroit Fire Department history – July 12, 1942, Detroit Firefighter Line of Duty Death

Detroit Firefighter Stanley J Hausch made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the citizens of Detroit. At the time of his death Stanley was assigned to Engine 17.

Firefighter Hausch was killed by the collapse of a 15 foot block wall while fight a fire on Woodward Avenue.  The collapse was caused by an explosion from a backdraft.  Firefighter Hausch was 36 years old. He had been a Detroit Firefighter for 23 years.

Lieutenant Vincent Grenwick and 3 other firefighters were also injured in the collapse. Lt. Grenwick suffered a broken leg. Details of the other firefighters injuries are unknown.

The fire started around 2:30 am.  Twelve establishments including an artists’ supply house, dance hall, 3 bars and a bowling alley were consumed by the fire. It took 3 hours to contained the fire.