Afternoon fire that destroyed multi-family home in Fall River deemed to be accidental

The cause of a blaze that destroyed a multi-family home in Fall River late last week has been determined.

According to Captain Joshua Hetzler, on Friday, at approximately 5:20 p.m., the Fall River Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 64 Fountain Street following multiple emergency calls reporting smoke and fire in the area.

While enroute to the scene, responding units observed a significant column of smoke in the vicinity of Columbia Street, which prompted the request for an additional engine company to assist with the response.

Upon arrival, the first-arriving chief officer established command and conducted a size-up of the structure. Crews encountered heavy smoke and fire showing from multiple sides of the two-story, wood-frame residential building.

Engine companies initiated an aggressive fire attack and advanced suppression operations throughout the structure. Additional crews stretched hose lines to multiple areas of the building to support suppression efforts.

Firefighters conducted a primary search of the second floor while ventilation operations were performed on the roof to release heat and smoke from the structure.

The fire was brought under control at approximately 5:45 p.m. Crews remained on scene for an extended period conducting overhaul operations to locate and extinguish hidden fire.

The building sustained significant fire and smoke damage throughout the residence, resulting in the displacement of one occupant.

Fire investigators responded to the scene to determine the origin and cause of the fire. Utility companies secured both the gas and electrical services to the building, and representatives from the Building Department also responded to assess the structure’s condition.

The Fire Investigation Unit determined the fire to be accidental in origin. No civilian or firefighter injuries were reported.

The Fire Department wants to remind residents that working smoke alarms and prompt reporting of fires are critical to protecting lives and property.