- Department of Fire Services
Media Contact
Jake Wark, Public Information Officer
LOWELL — A fatal two-alarm fire on Chelmsford Street most likely started with smoking materials, said Lowell Fire Chief Phillip A.J. Charron, Lowell Police Superintendent Greg Hudon, State Fire Marshal Jon Davine, and Middlesex County District Attorney Marian T. Ryan.
“Our hearts go out to the family that lost a loved one last night,” said Chief Charron. “On behalf of the Lowell Fire Department, I want to express our heartfelt condolences in a tragic time for them and our community.”
The Lowell Fire Department responded to 553 Chelmsford St. at about 10:30 pm after neighbors called 9-1-1 to report a fire. While en route, they received reports that someone might still be inside. On arrival, they observed heavy fire showing on the first floor and venting from the right side of the building.
One adult occupant escaped from the 2 1/2 story, single-family home. That person was transported to an area hospital with injuries that are not life threatening. Firefighters located a second occupant, an adult in his late 60s, deceased inside. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will determine the cause and manner of death.
Firefighters knocked down the bulk of the fire in about 10 minutes. Preliminary information is that they did not hear smoke alarms when they entered to attack the fire.
The origin and cause of the fire are being investigated by the Lowell Fire Department, Lowell Police Department, and State Police assigned to the offices of the State Fire Marshal and Middlesex District Attorney. They are assisted by the Department of Fire Services’ Code Compliance & Enforcement Unit.
Investigators collectively determined that the fire started with smoking materials – the leading cause of fatal fires in Massachusetts and nationwide.
“Smoking was a known or potential factor in 12 Massachusetts fire deaths this year,” said State Fire Marshal Davine. “There’s no truly safe way to smoke, especially if you’re drowsy or in bed. If you must do it, then get up, use a heavy ashtray, and please -- put it out, all the way, every time.”
###
Media Contact
