Harry V. Newell, Ketchikan Fire Department, April 7, 1955
Harry V. Newell, 56 years old, Captain of the Ketchikan Fire Department was killed on April 7, 1955 fighting a fire in the basement repair shop of the Smith Electric Company in Ketchikan.
Three other firefighters and police officers were overcome by smoke and gases, but were revived shortly after. Newell who was wearing a Scott Air Pak had been in the fire building for an estimated 20 minutes before he was rescued and brought outside. Records regarding the fire do not indicate the cause nor the damage.
Harry Newell had been a Captain in the Ketchikan Fire Department for a number of years, was a past governor of the Moose Lodge, a past ruler of the Elks Lodge, and a member of the Eagles Lodge.
At the time of his death he was survived by a separated wife, Mary, two sons of Ketchikan, Bob and Harry F., and a daughter then of Vancouver, Washington, Mrs. John Connors. Harry had lived in Ketchikan for 32 years.