Press Release  Three-Alarm Brockton Fire Started with Candle

BROCKTON — A three-alarm fire that sent seven people to the hospital started accidentally with a candle, said Brockton Fire Chief Brian F. Nardelli, Brockton Police Chief Brenda Perez, and State Fire Marshal Peter J. Ostroskey.

“This fire had every potential to be a terrible tragedy, and I want to recognize the outstanding work of Brockton firefighters in rescuing residents from the danger,” said Chief Nardelli. “We believe the fire started with a candle, which ignited flammable items nearby. If you use candles at home, please remember to keep anything that can burn at least a foot away on all sides. Always place them on a sturdy, nonflammable saucer or candleholder. And never leave a burning candle unattended – always blow it out before you leave the room or go to sleep.”

“Candles cause about 100 fires each year in Massachusetts,” said State Fire Marshal Ostroskey. “Almost all of them take place in people’s homes, and almost all of them can be prevented by using extra caution. Even better, try battery-powered alternatives, like flashlights for emergencies and flameless candles for decoration and celebration. They’re much safer than an open flame.”

The Brockton Fire Department responded to the area of 25 Central Sq. for a report of a residential fire shortly before 1:00 on Sunday morning. On arrival, firefighters observed heavy fire on the triple-decker’s second and third floors and occupants hanging from the windows of the third floor. Firefighters rescued five people over ground ladders; these five, along with two others, were transported to area hospitals with varying injuries. The fire went to three alarms before it was knocked down about an hour later.

The origin and cause of the fire were investigated by the Brockton Fire Department, the Brockton Police Department’s Fire Investigation Unit, and State Police fire investigators assigned to the State Fire Marshal’s office. They jointly determined that the fire began in a bedroom near the right rear corner of the second floor, and that it was caused by a candle that ignited flammable items on a bedside table.

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