Fire in Northampton claims one victim

Fire in Northampton claims one victim
Daily Hampshire Gazette
By Alexander MacDougall
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NORTHAMPTON — A house fire that occurred Tuesday night near Smith College has led to the death of one individual, according to the State Fire Marshal’s Office.

The fire was first reported at around 9:20 p.m. at 29 Fort Hill Terrace, located off South Street. Officers from the Northampton Police Department were the first to arrive on scene, but were unable to enter due to the high heat, said Fire Marshal spokesperson Jake Wark.

When Northampton Fire Rescue arrived, heavy smoke and flames were emanating from the two-story single-family home. Upon entry to the house, firefighters found one occupant who was pronounced dead at the scene. Another occupant of the home managed to escape, officials said.

Firefighters battled the blaze for around an hour before it was brought under control, authorities said. No smoke alarms appeared to be going off, according to officials.

The origin and cause of the fire are under investigation by the Northampton Fire Department, Northampton Police Department, State Police fire investigators assigned to the State Fire Marshal’s office, and State Police detectives assigned to the Northwestern District Attorney’s office. They are supported by the Department of Fire Services’ Code Compliance & Enforcement Unit.

The fire departments of Easthampton, Hadley and South Deerfield provided mutual aid at the scene. The Whately Fire Department and Williamsburg Fire Department provided station coverage. The Department of Fire Services deployed a Rehab Unit to support firefighter health and safety.

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