Deadly blaze recalls deaths of 2 firefighters in 2004

By Michael Hinkelman, Daily News Staff Writer
Posted: April 10, 2012

The deaths of two firefighters Monday evoked memories of 2004, the last time two Philadelphia firefighters were killed in the line of duty.

The deaths of Capt. John Taylor and Firefighter Rey Rubio resulted in criminal charges.

Rubio and Taylor were asphyxiated after they were trapped in the burning basement of a Belgrade Street rowhouse in Port Richmond in August 2004.

Fire officials said at the time Rubio may have become trapped in the haphazard wiring for lighting that was being used to grow marijuana plants and that Taylor may have died because he stayed behind to try to help his comrade.

Officials listed the cause of the fire as combustibles that were too close to an electrical appliance.

Within days, Daniel Brough, a handyman who was renting the house on Belgrade, was charged with two counts of third-degree murder, two counts of involuntary manslaughter, and one count each of causing a catastrophe, risking a catastrophe, possession of marijuana with intent to deliver, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

At trial, the prosecution contended the fire was caused by intense heat produced by the 1,000-watt lamps that Brough used to grow marijuana in a small plywood closet.

On Nov. 21, 2005, Brough was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter, causing a catastrophe, and possession of marijuana with intent to deliver. Eight days later, he was sentenced to 15 months to four years in state prison. He said at sentencing he was "truly sorry" for his actions.

City fire officials plan to honor Rubio and Taylor with a plaque-dedication ceremony at 3630 Belgrade St. at 11 a.m. April 18.

Contact Michael Hinkelman at hinkelm@phillynews.com or follow @MHinkelman on Twitter.

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