UPDATED – Toledo fire chief describes ‘rapid deterioration of conditions’ at fire that killed 2 firefighters

A “rapid deterioration of conditions” led to the deaths of two Toledo firefighters as they battled a North Toledo apartment complex fire Sunday, said Fire Chief Luis Santiago.

Chief Santiago said no official cause for the fire at 528 Magnolia St. has been determined, and an investigation continues.

The city is waiting to hear from the two families regarding a funeral, and the fire department is ready to give honors funerals.

James Dickman, 31, had a wife and two children, and Stephen Machcinski, 42, is survived by his parents and a brother, Chief Santiago said.

WTOL-TV:

Chief Santiago said Monday Private Dickman leaves behind his wife, a 3-year-old daughter, a 1-month-old son as well as his parents and 2 sisters. Chief Santiago said Private Machcinski leaves behind his parents, a brother and a sister.

Private Machcinski had been with the Department since 1998, serving with Engine 13 and Engine 3. Private Dickman was appointed to the department in September 2013, and had previously served with the Sandusky Perkins Fire Department.

Chief Santiago says the Toledo Fire Investigation Unit, Toledo Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Ohio Fire Marshall’s Office are investigating the cause of the fire.

Toledo Mayor D. Michael Collins said Ohio Governor John Kasich has ordered all state office buildings to fly flags at half staff because of the tragedy. Toledo fire stations are flying their flags at full staff, while flying a purple and black funeral flag below the American flag in honor of those lost.

Chief Santiago says donations can be made to the Toledo Fire and Rescue Foundation at any Toledo Police or Toledo Fire Credit Union location.