Press Release  Needham Fire Investigation Suggests Origin in Garage

NEEDHAM — The early-morning fire that claimed a woman’s life on Christmas Eve appears to have started in the home’s garage and the preliminary evidence suggests an accidental cause, said Needham Fire Chief Thomas Conroy, Needham Police Chief John Schlittler, State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine, and Norfolk District Attorney Michael W. Morrissey.

“Our thoughts have been with the family since the early morning hours of December 24 and they remain with the family today,” said Chief Conroy. “I want to recognize the outpouring of compassion from Needham residents who are sending their love and support.”

The fire at 28 Woodworth Road is being jointly investigated by the Needham Fire Department, Needham Police, State Police fire investigators assigned to the State Fire Marshal’s office, and State Police assigned to the Norfolk DA’s office. They are supported by the Department of Fire Services’ Code Compliance & Enforcement Unit. Firefighters and investigators were assisted at the scene by the Norfolk County Technical Rescue Team and a DFS drone unit.

Based on an examination of the area, witness interviews, and other evidence, investigators believe the fire began in the rear of an attached garage located at the right side of the three-story, single-family home. In this area, they identified several potential heat sources that could have contributed to the fire, all of which were accidental.

The Needham Fire Department responded to 28 Woodworth Road shortly before 5:00 am on December 24. On arrival, firefighters observed heavy smoke and flames coming from the three-story, single-family home. The first responding personnel attempted entry but were pushed back by the raging fire, which quickly spread throughout the structure and caused catastrophic damage.

Two adult occupants were able to escape. A third, a woman in her 20s, was later located deceased inside. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will conduct a formal identification procedure and determine the cause and manner of death.

The fire drew a four-alarm response, with about 75 firefighters from across the region battling the flames for more than seven hours before bringing it under control.

“We haven’t determined the cause of this fire yet, but we know that tragedies like this one are most common in the winter months,” said State Fire Marshal Davine. “Please be sure you have working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms on every level of your home and a practiced escape plan in the event of an emergency.”

The fire departments of Boston, Brookline, Dedham, Natick, Newton, Norwood, Milton, Wellesley, and Westwood provided mutual aid. The Boston Sparks Association provided food and beverages to personnel at the scene, and the Department of Fire Services provided a Rehab unit to support firefighter health and safety.

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