SACKETT LAKE – A windswept fire that broke out Monday evening quickly spread at Camp Shira in Sackett Lake in the Town of Thompson totally destroying 16 duplex summer bungalows.

Remnants of buildings destroyed by massive fire

(Photos by YB)

Sullivan County Emergency Services Coordinator Richard Martinkovic said a combination of the strong winds and the close proximity of the buildings, resulted in their destruction. Other buildings in the Jewish camp were saved.

The cause of the fire is under investigation and may be difficult to determine given the total destruction of the buildings, said Martinkovic. However, the county arson team was on the scene Tuesday morning along with firefighters, where were still dousing remaining burning embers.

Three firefighters suffered minor injuries.

Several area fire departments fought the four-alarm blaze overnight.