2 Neighboring Homes Catch Fire in Chelmsford, 3 Suffer Minor Injuries
CHELMSFORD, MA – A quiet neighborhood in Chelmsford was rattled early Wednesday morning when two adjacent homes went up in flames, resulting in three people sustaining minor injuries. The fires, which began around 2:15 a.m. on Riverview Avenue, drew a rapid response from local fire departments and raised questions about what sparked the sudden blaze.
According to Chelmsford Fire Chief Gary Ryan, the department received multiple 911 calls reporting heavy smoke and flames coming from two neighboring properties. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered intense heat and thick smoke as flames engulfed the side of one home and quickly spread to the other.
“The close proximity of the houses and the dry weather conditions allowed the fire to spread very rapidly,” said Chief Ryan during a morning press briefing. “Our crews did an excellent job containing it and preventing further damage to nearby structures.”
A total of four engines and two ladder trucks were deployed to the scene, along with mutual aid from neighboring towns including Lowell and Westford. Firefighters battled the blaze for over an hour before it was brought under control. Despite the damage to both homes, authorities confirmed that all occupants had been evacuated in time.
Three people—two residents and one firefighter—suffered minor injuries. According to emergency responders, the residents were treated at the scene for smoke inhalation, while the firefighter sustained a minor burn. All three individuals were later transported to a local hospital as a precaution but are expected to make full recoveries.
The identities of the residents have not yet been released, but neighbors say the homes belonged to two longtime families in the area. “It’s just heartbreaking,” said local resident Emma Holloway, who lives a few doors down. “They’re good people, always friendly. I can’t imagine losing so much in a matter of minutes.”
Investigators from the Chelmsford Fire Department and the State Fire Marshal’s office are working to determine the cause of the fire. While no official cause has been identified, preliminary reports suggest the fire may have started in the garage of one home before quickly spreading.
Damage to both structures is extensive, with one home considered a total loss and the other sustaining significant interior and exterior damage. Several nearby vehicles were also damaged by the heat and falling debris.
In the wake of the incident, the Red Cross has stepped in to assist the displaced families. Volunteers were seen on site providing blankets, food, and temporary lodging options.
Town officials praised the quick action of emergency responders and called for continued community support as the affected families begin the difficult process of recovery.
“This is a reminder of how quickly things can change,” said Chelmsford Town Manager Paul Cohen. “Our thoughts are with the families impacted, and we’ll do everything we can to support them in the days ahead.”
As investigators continue their work, the community is rallying together, organizing a fundraiser and donation drive to assist the families who lost their homes. A GoFundMe campaign has already been launched by neighbors and had raised over $5,000 by Wednesday afternoon.
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