At approximately 6:45, Monday evening, South Salem firefighters were dispatched to a reported structure fire at John Jay Middle School. An engine and tanker from Vista and a ladder from Croton falls were also automatically dispatched as part of the pre-planned response. Car 2452 was the first unit on scene and reported smoke showing from 2 exterior doors of the building, adjacent to the auditorium. "John Jay Command" was established and the 10-75 was transmitted due to the amount of smoke on arrival and the size of the building. This brought in mutual aid from Bedford Hills, Goldens Bridge, Katonah, Lewisboro Vac and relocated Pound Ridge and Ridgefield Ct, to the South Salem firehouse.
A small fire was located in the rear of a class room, at the door, and quickly extinguished. The scene was placed under control and all mutual aid units were released. South Salem remained on scene for approximately 2 hours, while the Westchester County Cause and Origin Team investigated. It was determined that the fire was caused by contractors, working around the building earlier in the day.