Press Release  Leominster Fire Claims One Resident’s Life

LEOMINSTER — An overnight fire claimed one resident’s life and displaced another, said Leominster Fire Chief Robert A. Sideleau II, Leominster Police Chief Ryan Malatos, State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine, and Worcester County District Attorney Joseph D. Early Jr.

The Leominster Fire Department responded to a condominium building at 78 Meadow Pond Dr. following a report of a fire. On arrival, firefighters found a fire in the living room of one unit and a badly injured older adult. Firefighters removed this occupant, a man in his late 60s with limited mobility, for transport to an area hospital where he was pronounced deceased. They quickly brought the fire under control.

The fire is being investigated by the Leominster Fire Department, Leominster Police Department, State Police fire investigators assigned to the State Fire Marshal’s office, and State Police Detectives assigned to the Worcester County District Attorney’s office. They are supported by the Department of Fire Services’ Code Compliance & Enforcement Unit.

Investigators found evidence of smoking materials and home oxygen equipment in the residence.

“On behalf of the Leominster Fire Department, I want to extend our heartfelt condolences to this man’s family and loved ones,” said Chief Sideleau. “This is a very sad event for them and our community.”

“This is the second fatal fire in less than a week where investigators found home oxygen equipment,” said State Fire Marshal Davine. “There’s no truly safe way to smoke, but smoking around medical oxygen is especially dangerous. Oxygen will allow any fire to spread faster and burn hotter. If you or a loved one use home oxygen, please don’t smoke.”

The Department of Fire Services offers home oxygen safety information for residents, caregivers, and public safety personnel. Flyers in English, Spanish, and Portuguese can be downloaded from the DFS website or ordered in bulk from the Massachusetts Health Promotion Clearinghouse.
 

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