- Department of Fire Services
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Jake Wark, Public Information Officer
OAKHAM — One resident is deceased after an early morning fire that broke out in a single-family home, said Oakham Fire Chief Timothy Howe, Oakham Police Chief Frederick J. Gehring, State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine, and Worcester County District Attorney Joseph D. Early Jr.
“Our hearts go out to the family that lost a loved one this morning,” said Chief Howe. “This is a sad day for them and the community.”
The Oakham Fire Department responded to 67 Skyline Drive following a 9-1-1 call from a neighbor at about 12:45 this morning. On arrival, firefighters observed heavy smoke and flames and learned that a Rutland Police officer had already attempted to gain entry but was forced back by conditions inside.
Firefighters immediately began to attack the fire in about six inches of snow amid temperatures of about 4°F, which froze hoselines and caused dangerously icy conditions at the scene. They struck multiple alarms to bring additional resources, including numerous tankers carrying water, and battled the flames for about an hour before bringing them under control. Firefighters remained at the home through the morning extinguishing hot spots and conducting overhaul.
One adult, the home’s sole resident, was found deceased inside. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will determine the cause and manner of death.
The origin and cause of the fire are being investigated by the Oakham Fire Department, Oakham Police, State Police fire investigators assigned to the State Fire Marshal’s office, and State Police Detectives assigned to the Worcester DA’s office. They are supported by the Department of Fire Services’ Code Compliance & Enforcement Unit and Special Operations team, which delivered a drone unit to gather aerial and interior imagery.
The fire departments of Rutland, Spencer, New Braintree, Athol, Brookfield, East Brookfield, North Brookfield, Paxton, Hardwick, Hubbardston, Orange, and Warren provided mutual aid. A DFS rehab unit responded to support firefighter health and safety at the scene.
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