PEPPERELL, Mass. — The first deadly fire in Pepperell in 20 years has killed one woman and injured four other people.
Firefighters worked tirelessly under the sweltering heat to put out a four-alarm fire in the town. Authorities say the flames broke out on Tuesday morning at around 8:30 in the apartment complex on 50 Main Street.
Fatal fire in Pepperell. Fire officials say one woman died on the first floor. Officials say this is the first deadly fire here in 20 years. pic.twitter.com/z3ePVRdEsv
— Robert Goulston (@rgoulston) July 30, 2019
An off-duty firefighter passing by after leaving the grocery store noticed the flames and smoke coming from the apartment and called the fire in.
In total, 14 fire departments from neighboring communities assisted in responding to the fire. Heavy smoke and flames could be seen billowing from the first-floor windows, according to the Pepperell fire chief.
One woman has been pronounced dead due to the fire while her husband and three firefighters were transported to area hospitals.
The fatal victim was disabled and used a wheelchair, according to officials.
Excessive heat and humidity made it harder for crews to put out the fire.
The fire has been ruled as accidental, but no further details have been released.
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