It's a healing process for the Carrboro fire department, just as it is forRobbie. When a Hillsborough home burned last month, Carrboro firefighter,Captain Robbie Crabtree, fell through the floor. He was severely burned.The homeowners, Jim and Betty Tingle, are charged with setting fire totheir own house.
Fire Chief Rodney Murray believes there is enough evidence to carry thecase forward-- enough evidence to bring a swift ending to the tragedy.But that doesn't mean forgetting Crabtree. That's why firefighters areputting the Captain Robbie stickers on their helmets and vehicles.
Firefighter Greg Tilley says it's often hard coming to work since theaccident happened. But that's what he and his co-workers have to do.It's what Crabtree would want.
They have reserved a parking space for Crabtree in front of the station.There's even a hotline people can call to get the latest information onRobbie's condition.
The outpouring of support has been tremendous. That's evident in thenumber of letters and cards posted on the bulletin board. But none of itcan take away the pain and worry the firefighters feel when one of theirown is hurting.
Firefighter Bill Kitchin knows where Crabtree stands. He believes it'sunlikely Crabtree will ever return to work.
At this time, Crabtree is still in the hospital recovering from more skingraft surgery he underwent Monday.
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