**LEAD STORY**
A three alarm fire, in an illegal automobile "chop-shop", resulted in the death of an FDNY firefighter today. He reportedly died as a result of a roof collapse.
Firefighter Louis Valentino of Rescue Company 2 was operating with his company and other units on the first floor of the building when the roof came down, trapping Valentino and other firefighters. When the roof collapsed, a third alarm was immediately transmitted, and rescue operations using "vetter bags," or air bags, began. At least four other firefighters were removed from under the roof section, all in serious condition, and transported to Kings County Hospital by NYC*EMS. A total of 14 injured firefighters were treated.
The fire occured at 4400 Glenwood Road in the East Flatbush section of Brooklyn. The building was originally built as an automobile dealership, but was divided between a health club and an auto shop that was used by auto thieves to cut up stolen cars so that the parts could be sold, hence, a "chop-shop."
Firefighter Valentino was 37 years old and married. He was cited two times for bravery since joining the FDNY in 1984. Prior to being accepted and assigned to Rescue Company 2, Valentino was assigned to Engine Co. 281 and Ladder Co. 147, both in Brooklyn.
Valentino was the second FDNY member to die in the line of duty in 1996, and the 764th member in the 131 year history of the FDNY.