URGENT UPDATE: Boston firefighters have successfully extinguished a significant fire at a residential property in Dorchester early this Christmas morning. Fire crews responded to the scene at 699 Washington St. after reports of flames erupting from a 2.5-story wooden home around 8:00 AM local time.
Officials quickly escalated the situation to a second alarm as fire spread rapidly through the structure. The Boston Fire Department confirmed via social media, “Fire companies have knocked down the heavy fire & are checking for hotspots & extension.” Fortunately, no injuries have been reported among residents or firefighters.
Three individuals have been displaced due to the fire, which caused estimated damages of approximately $950,000. The Red Cross and the Boston Fire Department’s Victim Assistance Unit (BFD-VAU) are currently on-site to provide support for those affected.
On this chilly Christmas morning, where temperatures hovered around 30 degrees Fahrenheit, the Boston Sparks Association was also on the scene, providing essential refreshments to the responding firefighters.
This incident follows a tragic fire in Needham on Christmas Eve, where a 21-year-old woman lost her life. The Needham Fire Department responded to a blaze at 28 Woodworth Road shortly before 5:00 AM, battling heavy smoke and flames for over seven hours before gaining control. Unfortunately, despite efforts, the woman was later found deceased inside the home, while two adults managed to escape.
The investigation into the cause of the Needham fire is ongoing, with multiple agencies, including local police and state fire investigators, involved.
“Please be sure you have working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms on every level of your home and a practiced escape plan in the event of an emergency,”
urged State Fire Marshal Jon Davine, highlighting the increased risks during winter months.
As Boston firefighters continue to assess the scene in Dorchester, the community is reminded of the ongoing challenges posed by residential fires, particularly during the holiday season.
Stay tuned for more updates as the situation develops and further details are released.
