For Immediate Release

Tuesday, Jan. 23, 2018

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Gloucester Fire Department Battles Building Fire on Grove Street

Smoke Detectors Likely Saved Child’s Life

GLOUCESTER — Chief Eric L. Smith reports that the Gloucester Fire Department battled an intense building fire this morning in a three story, two-family dwelling.

Firefighters responded at 9:18 a.m. after receiving reports of a fire at 33 Grove St. Upon arrival, crews had heavy fire visible from the second and third floors, and flames were stretching out to the neighboring house, 31 Grove St.

Firefighters spoke with neighbors who reported not seeing anyone fleeing the dwelling, and crews began to attack the flames. After a few minutes of an aggressive exterior attack, firefighters entered the first floor and ran hose lines to the upper floors to support a search for possible victims. Fortunately, no one was inside.

Neighboring homes were evacuated by the Gloucester Police Department during firefighting efforts.

One child, who was home sick from school, was inside the home when the fire broke out. He reported to firefighters that he was sleeping when the loud blaring of smoke detectors alerted him to the trouble, and he escaped to a neighbor’s house unharmed.

One firefighter sustained a minor injury. No civilians were hurt in the fire. 

The origin and cause of the fire are under investigation by the Gloucester Police and Fire Departments and the Massachusetts State Fire Marshal’s Office. 

The Essex Fire Department responded to a call for mutual aid and provided station coverage during the fire.

The home sustained serious damage and is currently uninhabitable. The home at 31 Grove St. sustained heat damage to its exterior, but residents were able to return to that home. The American Red Cross is assisting a single mother and her four children who resided on the second and third floors. The family living on the first floor will stay with other relatives for the time being.

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