🚒 Working Structure Fire – Polish Town | November 12, 2026

On Thursday, November 12, at approximately 2:09 p.m., the Riverhead Fire Department responded to a reported residential structure fire at the corner of Sweezy Avenue and Lincoln Street in Polish Town. Upon arrival, heavy smoke and active fire conditions were encountered on the second floor, prompting the activation of a working structure fire response. All occupants were able to exit the residence.

Approximately 50 firefighters responded to the incident, with the Riverhead Fire Department operating four engines, two ladder trucks, and one Fire Police vehicle. Firefighters worked to extinguish the fire and prevent it from spreading to neighboring homes. The fire was declared under control at approximately 2:54 p.m. Two adults and an infant were transported to area hospitals for evaluation. A dog escaped the residence unharmed; unfortunately, a cat did not survive the fire. The scene was subsequently turned over to the Riverhead Town Fire Marshal's Office for investigation.

Mutual aid assistance was provided by:

Flanders Fire Department – Responded to the scene.

Jamesport Fire Department – Responded to the scene as the Rapid Intervention Team (RIT).

Eastport Fire Department – Initially responded with an engine for standby coverage at RFD Headquarters before being redirected to the scene.

Westhampton Beach Fire Department – Provided a ladder truck for standby coverage at RFD Headquarters.

Wading River Fire Department – Provided additional standby coverage at RFD Headquarters alongside Westhampton Beach.

This incident was part of a busy day for the Riverhead Fire Department, which also responded to a reported structure fire earlier in the morning that proved to be unfounded, as well as a motor vehicle accident involving a vehicle that struck a building.

We extend our sincere appreciation to all of our mutual aid departments, responding emergency services, and the dedicated firefighters who answered today's alarms. The cooperation, professionalism, and teamwork demonstrated by everyone involved were outstanding. Thank you to those who operated at the scene and those who provided standby coverage to ensure our community remained protected throughout the incident.

Our thoughts are with the residents and family affected by today's fire.

📸 Photos from today's motor vehicle accident and working structure fire.