At 1700 PM on May 12 the Downingtown Fire Department was alerted to a reported building fire in the 100 block of Wallace Ave. Initial reports indicated smoke showing from a two story strip mall. Downingtown units arrived on location and requested a working fire dispatch, bringing in mutual aid units including First West Chester (WCFD Station 51) as RIT. Shortly after command requested a second alarm, bringing in units including Air 52 (Lt. Creager) and Ladder 53 (WCFD Fame Fire Company). As units continued a defensive attack, command ordered a third alarm and a tanker task force, bringing in Tanker 52. West Chester units assisted with fire suppression and overhaul.

West Chester and Downingtown units operated on location until 2200 hours that night.