Gloucester Fire Department Extinguishes Working Fire 

GLOUCESTER — Chief Eric Smith reports that the Gloucester Fire Department extinguished a working fire on Thursday afternoon. 

On Thursday, Feb. 12, at approximately 3:23 p.m., Gloucester Fire was dispatched to a two-family home at 531 Essex Ave. for reports of a fire in one unit of a two-family home

Upon arrival, crews observed heavy smoke and fire. The first arriving crews from Group 3 made a quick, aggressive attack and knocked the fire down by 3:36 p.m.

The sole occupant was home at the time and was treated at the scene by Gloucester Fire and Beauport Ambulance. The resident’s cat died in the fire. 

There was significant fire and water damage. The resident is being assisted by The Red Cross of Massachusetts.

“Crews did an outstanding job maintaining a quick and effective response to extinguish the fire while also tending to the victim,” said Chief Smith. “Our quick response allowed us to keep this to a working fire as the first arriving crews were able to stretch a hose line within five minutes of arrival.” 

The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Gloucester Fire Department. 

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