Boston, MA — Early Morning 3-Alarm Fire Displaces Over 30 Residents on Centre Street; Firefighter and Resident Injured
BOSTON, MA — In the early morning hours of Friday, the Boston Fire Department responded to a three-alarm fire that tore through a residential building at 378 Centre Street, leaving more than 30 residents displaced and two individuals injured.
At approximately 4:45 AM, 911 calls began pouring in reporting heavy fire showing from the rear porches of a six-family residence in Jamaica Plain. Fire companies arrived within minutes to find flames rapidly consuming the back of the structure, with extension already underway to a neighboring six-unit residential building.
Recognizing the severity of the incident and the density of the housing, fire command immediately struck a 3-alarm response, escalating the emergency and calling in additional manpower and apparatus from across the city.
Aggressive Firefighting Saves Lives and Prevents Further Spread
Boston firefighters undertook an aggressive interior and exterior attack, working tirelessly in the tight confines of the densely packed neighborhood. Crews battled the flames under challenging conditions, as fire from the original structure continued to extend into the adjacent building through porches and rooflines.
Despite the fast-moving nature of the blaze, firefighters successfully stopped the spread before it could impact additional nearby properties, likely preventing a wider disaster.
According to Boston Fire Department spokespersons, the incident resulted in non-life-threatening injuries to one firefighter and one civilian, both of whom were transported to local hospitals by Boston EMS for evaluation and treatment.
Over 30 Displaced, But No Fatalities
Officials confirmed that more than 30 residents across the two buildings were displaced due to the fire, smoke, and water damage. The American Red Cross and City of Boston Emergency Management are actively working to provide temporary shelter and recovery assistance to those affected.
Thankfully, no fatalities have been reported, a fact largely attributed to the rapid response by firefighters and early 911 calls from neighbors.
Pets Rescued in the Midst of Chaos
In addition to saving lives and preventing further property damage, Boston firefighters also took the time to rescue multiple cats from the burning buildings.
“Crews made a point of searching for pets during overhaul,” a BFD official said. “Several cats were located and safely removed. That kind of compassion in the face of a dangerous situation really speaks to the heart of this job.”
Investigation Underway
The Boston Fire Investigation Unit is on scene and working to determine the origin and cause of the fire. While the exact point of ignition has not yet been released, preliminary reports suggest the fire originated on a rear porch—a common ignition point for fires in triple-decker and multi-family homes throughout the city.
Estimated Damages and Community Support
The estimated damage from the fire is currently projected at over $1 million, though that figure may rise pending a full structural and contents assessment. Both buildings have sustained significant fire, smoke, and water damage, and it is unclear how long it will take before residents can return—if at all.
Community members have already begun organizing efforts to assist the displaced families, with local organizations expected to set up donation drives and fundraising campaigns in the coming days.
A Reminder of Preparedness
This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of working smoke detectors, clear exits, and rapid communication in multi-family residential structures. Fire officials urge all Boston residents to check their smoke alarms and have an evacuation plan in place.
“Fires like these can spread quickly in older wooden structures with multiple units,” said a Boston Fire spokesperson. “We’re grateful for the quick actions of our crews and the community members who called 911. It made all the difference.”
How You Can Help
If you would like to assist the displaced residents of 378 Centre Street and the adjacent building, the City of Boston Office of Housing Stability is coordinating with local aid groups. Donations of clothing, toiletries, pet supplies, and non-perishable food items are welcome.
More details will be released in the coming days regarding financial donation platforms.
Leave a Reply