Federal investigators have released their findings into the February Easton multi-alarm fire that left a firefighter seriously injured after falling from a ladder while escaping the burning Hotel Hampton boarding house.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has published its Fire Fighter Fatality Investigation and Prevention Program report regarding the February 20, 2026 incident, officially identified as F2026-02 PA: Career Firefighter Injured after Falling from Ladder while Self-Extricating from Boarding House Fire – Pennsylvania.
The report details how Wilson Borough firefighter Bobby Lewullis became disoriented and low on air while operating on the upper floors of the heavily involved boarding house fire in downtown Easton.
According to investigators, Lewullis transmitted a mayday after becoming trapped in worsening smoke conditions. He ultimately located a window and attempted to self-extricate using a ground ladder placed to the building.
While descending, Lewullis fell approximately 20 feet from the ladder, suffering serious injuries during the incident.
The February blaze displaced dozens of residents and prompted dramatic rescues of multiple occupants from upper-floor windows as fire rapidly spread through the multi-story structure.
NIOSH’s report includes a full incident timeline, operational analysis, and recommendations aimed at preventing similar firefighter injuries in future mayday and self-rescue situations.
The report was published 64 days after the fire department requested the federal investigation.
Read the Full NIOSH Report
Click Here to View the NIOSH Investigation Report
First Source News will continue following any additional developments related to the Easton fire investigation.
