UPDATE: Boston firefighters quickly extinguished a heavy fire at a residential building in Dorchester on Christmas morning, displacing three residents. Emergency services responded to urgent calls at 699 Washington St., where flames were visibly raging from the two-and-a-half story wood frame home.
Firefighters swiftly declared a second alarm as they battled the blaze, with the Boston Fire Department reporting, “Fire companies have knocked down the heavy fire & are checking for hotspots & extension.” Thankfully, no injuries have been reported in this incident.
The fire caused an estimated $950,000 in damages, leaving three individuals without shelter. Authorities confirmed that the Red Cross is on scene to assist the displaced residents, while the Boston Sparks Association provided essential support with food and hydration for the responding fire crews on this chilly 30-degree day.
In a separate incident on Christmas Eve, tragedy struck in Needham, where a massive fire claimed the life of a 21-year-old woman. The Needham Fire Department responded to a call at 28 Woodworth Road shortly before 5 a.m., discovering heavy smoke and flames engulfing the three-story home. Despite the efforts of first responders, the fire’s intensity forced them back, leading to catastrophic damage.
Two adults managed to escape the inferno, but the young woman was found deceased inside the structure. The origin and cause of this separate fire are currently under investigation, with the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner set to conduct a formal identification and determine the cause of death.
The Needham fire drew a massive four-alarm response, with approximately 75 firefighters battling the flames for more than seven hours before they could finally bring it under control. Investigators from the Needham Fire Department, local police, and state fire marshals are all working tirelessly to uncover what led to this devastating incident.
State Fire Marshal Jon Davine stressed the importance of fire safety, especially during the winter months. “We haven’t determined the cause of this fire yet, but we know that tragedies like this one are most common in the winter months,” he stated. “Please ensure you have working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms on every level of your home and a practiced escape plan in the event of an emergency.”
As investigations continue, residents are urged to remain vigilant and prioritize safety measures in their homes. The Boston Fire Department, alongside mutual aid from multiple local fire departments, remains committed to protecting the community during this festive season.
