- Department of Fire Services
Media Contact
Jake Wark, Public Information Officer
HOLYOKE — The Holyoke Fire Department, Holyoke Police Department, and State Police Fire Investigation Unit assigned to the State Fire Marshal’s office are asking for the public’s assistance as they investigate yesterday’s early-morning fire on Pine Street.
Based on their examination of the scene at 268 Pine Street, witness interviews, and other evidence, investigators are asking residents to share any information they might have with the Arson Watch Reward Program at 1-800-682-9229. The Arson Watch Reward Program is coordinated by the Massachusetts Property Insurance Underwriting Association and offers rewards of up to $5,000 for information that solves, detects, or prevents arson crimes. All calls are confidential and tipsters may remain anonymous if they prefer.
Investigators are hopeful that community members may have observed people, vehicles, or activity in the alley behind Pine Street or on nearby streets between 2:30 am and 6:00 am.
The Holyoke Fire Department responded to area at about 6:00 yesterday morning for a report of fire in the back stairs. On arrival, they found heavy fire coming from the rear of the multifamily home. Firefighters undertook an aggressive attack on the fire, but it had badly damaged the rear stairwell and they were unable to access the second floor. Moving to the front, they made entry to search for residents and confirmed that all occupants had safely escaped.
High winds contributed to rapid fire spread through all three floors of the structure but firefighters were able to protect neighboring buildings. One firefighter suffered an injury that was not life-threatening. The fire departments of Westfield, Chicopee, and Westover provided mutual aid, and firefighters were supported by Holyoke Gas & Electric, Holyoke DPW, the Department of Fire Services, and Cataldo Ambulance.
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