2 people killed after 3-alarm fire in Saugus

SAUGUS, Mass. — Two people have died after a 3-alarm fire tore through a Saugus house on Richard Street early Saturday morning.

The victims were Rosemary Naples, 80, and Louis Gallo, 78, a family member confirmed to Boston 25 News on Saturday afternoon.

MORE: Saugus Deputy Fire Chief Thomas D’Eon says both elderly victims were found on the 1st floor of the Richard St. home. One died, the other was rushed to @MWHealthcare_ in critical condition @boston25 pic.twitter.com/N7JpE2Ck6U
— Julianne Lima (@JulianneLimaTV) July 10, 2021

The Saugus Fire Department told Boston 25 the fire started at approximately 5:30 a.m. with heavy fire on the front porch. They were alerted by neighbors who allegedly heard a large bang before the house was engulfed in flames.

Saugus Deputy Fire Chief Thomas D’Eon Jr. said when crews arrived on the scene, witnesses reported that there was a resident inside the home.

D’Eon confirmed crews found two elderly victims within the house. One resident was pronounced dead within the home, and the other resident was listed in critical condition and taken to Melrose-Wakefield Hospital.

UPDATE: @MassStatePolice, State Fire Marshal are on scene. Neighbors say the two residents were inside the house when fire broke out. We expect an update from Saugus’ deputy fire chief at 8:45 AM@boston25 pic.twitter.com/dbOQmHo77i
— Julianne Lima (@JulianneLimaTV) July 10, 2021

The State Fire Marshal announced the structure was unsound and the house will eventually be torn down. Officials added that they are looking into if there were smoke alarms.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation at this time.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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