SPENCER — A massive fire in Spencer, Massachusetts, destroyed two homes, damaged a third, and posed significant challenges for firefighters on Sunday afternoon.
The fire broke out on East Avenue around 4 p.m., prompting an immediate response from Spencer Fire & Emergency Services and neighboring fire departments. Nobody was home at the time, and thankfully, no injuries were reported.
However, the scene was anything but ordinary. Crews faced freezing temperatures, icy conditions, and exploding fireworks that were stored on the property.
Two Families Lose Everything
In a statement posted on Facebook, Spencer Fire & Emergency Services confirmed the devastating loss for two families.
“Unfortunately, two of our families from town lost everything tonight, and a third had damage to their home,” the statement read. “Despite the very frigid conditions, firefighters from several communities tried their best to save the two exposures.”
The fire completely destroyed two homes and caused damage to a neighboring property. Pictures and videos from the scene showed intense flames, with fireworks exploding into the air and a propane tank in the basement feeding the blaze.
Firefighters Battle Tough Conditions
The fire was especially difficult to fight due to the extreme cold. Temperatures were well below freezing, which caused icy conditions around the scene.
In a particularly dangerous moment, two firefighters fell through the ice while attempting to draw water from nearby Thompson Pond. The area lacks fire hydrants, making the pond a critical water source for fighting the fire. Fortunately, the firefighters were not injured and were able to continue their work.
Fire Chief Robert Parsons praised the efforts of crews from Spencer and surrounding communities who braved the harsh conditions to contain the fire.
Neighbor Witnesses Explosions
A neighbor told WBZ-TV that the fire was so intense it caused his house to shake. He described hearing loud explosions, which were later identified as fireworks stored on the property.
The dramatic scene of exploding fireworks added to the danger for firefighters and made extinguishing the blaze even more challenging.
Investigation Underway
The cause of the fire is still under investigation. The State Fire Marshal’s Office is assisting the Spencer Police and Fire Departments in determining how the fire started.
The state Department of Fire Services also provided support to crews on the scene, helping them battle the flames in bitterly cold weather. Fire departments from Oakham, Leicester, Sturbridge, Brookfield, and Rutland contributed to the response effort.
Community Support Needed
The loss of two homes and damage to a third has left families in need of community support. Local organizations and residents are expected to rally together to help those affected by the fire.
As the investigation continues, officials are urging residents to stay cautious with potential fire hazards, especially during the winter months when conditions can complicate firefighting efforts.
This tragic event serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by both freezing weather and unexpected circumstances like stored fireworks. Spencer and the surrounding communities are coming together to support those impacted by the devastating blaze.