EASTON, Pa.
A massive three-alarm fire tore through the Hampton Hotel in downtown Easton Friday morning, injuring one firefighter, forcing rescues of trapped occupants, and leaving more than 3,500 customers without power across the city.
The fire broke out around 10:45 a.m. in the basement of the Hampton Hotel at 462 Northampton Street, according to Northampton County dispatchers. Heavy smoke quickly filled the multi-story mixed-use building, prompting an immediate rescue response.
Easton Fire Chief Henry Hennings said crews encountered people trapped inside when they arrived.
“When we did arrive, there were people hanging out of multiple windows. Front, back, and side. So we went into rescue operation right away to try to get those people out,” Hennings said.
Firefighters successfully removed three civilians from the building, and all occupants were evacuated safely.
During firefighting operations, one firefighter was injured. Officials have not released details on the severity of the injuries, but Chief Hennings asked the community to keep the firefighter in their thoughts.
“Have everybody say a prayer,” Hennings said.
Widespread Power Outages and Major Disruptions
The fire caused significant infrastructure impacts across downtown Easton.
• 3,503 Met-Ed customers lost power, affecting approximately 26% of the city’s customers
• Power has since been restored as of approximately 4:00 p.m. Friday
• 275 people were evacuated from the Crayola Experience, which lost power
• Crayola officials say the attraction will remain closed Friday and hopes to reopen Saturday
The American Red Cross also deployed Disaster Action Team volunteers to assist displaced occupants.
Major Downtown Closures and Regional Response
The fire forced closures and disruptions throughout the downtown district.
• The State Theatre canceled its scheduled performance of “Riverdance 30”
• The 400 block of Northampton Street and nearby Pine Street were closed
• Fire companies from across Northampton, Lehigh, and surrounding counties responded under mutual aid
Nancy Run Fire Company confirmed there were initial reports of occupants trapped inside, triggering the third alarm response.
Investigation Ongoing
Officials say the fire started in the building’s basement, but the cause remains under investigation.
Emergency crews remained on scene for hours extinguishing the fire, ventilating the building, and ensuring no further hazards remained.
