Press Release  Southbridge Fire Was Intentionally Set, Officials Say

SOUTHBRIDGE — The seven-alarm fire in Southbridge that displaced 12 families last month was intentionally set and investigators are asking anyone with information on the incident to contact the Arson Watch Reward Hotline at 1-800-682-9229.

Southbridge Police Chief Shane Woodson, Southbridge Fire Chief Paul Normandin, and State Fire Marshal Jon Davine made the announcement after three weeks of intensive investigation by the Southbridge Police Department Detective Unit, Southbridge Fire Department, and State Police Fire Investigation Unit assigned to the State Fire Marshal’s office.

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 detects or prevents arson crimes. All calls are confidential, and tipsters may remain anonymous if they prefer.

The fire at 5-7 Union St. was first reported at 3:25 am on November 13 and quickly spread to the neighboring building at 9-11 Union St. The first arriving companies observed heavy fire and immediately struck second and third alarms to bring in additional resources. The fire ultimately went to seven alarms, drawing firefighters and apparatus from more than a dozen communities.

Firefighters had the blaze under control by about 6:15 am. One firefighter reported a hand injury and was transported to UMass Memorial - Harrington Hospital for evaluation. Working smoke alarms helped to rouse sleeping residents and allowed them to escape safely.

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