Student, Firefighter Hurt in Pa. Fire Near Lehigh U

Nov. 27--A Lehigh University student suffered burns and a firefighter injured his back in an overnight 2-alarm house fire in south Bethlehem, a fire official said.

Bethlehem fire Capt. Raymond Buttillo said five students were home when the fire broke out at 1:55 a.m. at a single-family twin house at 447 Montclair Ave. in south Bethlehem. The fire started in the living room and spread to the front porch, he said.

"All five [college] kids were able to get out," Buttillo said.

One student suffered burns, Buttillo said he did not know the extent of the his injuries. A firefighter reported a lower back sprain but did not require medical attention, Buttillo said.

A university spokesman said the student's injuries are not life threatening. A total of nine Lehigh students are in need of new housing.

A cause of the fire is under investigation by Bethlehem Deputy Fire Marshal Robert Novatnack.

The property is owned by Michael and Beth Schonberger of Bala Cynwyd, Montgomery County, according to Northampton County property records.

Steve Esack

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