Pittsfield Family Homeless, Family Dog Dead After Midday Fire

An early afternoon fire Thursday on South Atlantic Avenue in Pittsfield left a family homeless. According to Deputy Fire Chief Daniel Garner, at approximately 12:35 pm, the Pittsfield Fire Department responded to 16 South Atlantic Avenue for a reported structure fire. Pittsfield Police were at a neighboring house when they were notified of the fire.

Four engines, a ladder truck, and a command vehicle responded to the fire. Upon their arrival, firefighters found heavy fire conditions on the first floor in the kitchen area. The fire had extended into the adjoining rooms of the 2 1/2-story, wood-frame home.

E-3 crew stretched a 1-1/2” pre-connect hose line and attacked the main body of fire. E-1 secured a water supply and conducted a primary search. E-5 deployed a backup hose line and assisted in searching the residence. Tower-1 ventilated the building and assisted in salvage and overhaul operations. E-6 was dispatched as a Rapid Intervention Crew and assisted in “softening” the building, aiding in suppression efforts.

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There were no reported injuries but a dog perished in the fire. Deputy Chief Garner estimated that the house suffered about $20,000 to $50,000 in damage.

Here is an expanded image of the damage caused on the exterior of the home, provided by the Pittsfield Fire Department:

Photo: Pittsfield FD

The Salvation Army and Red Cross were assisting the displaced occupants, a family of five, with temporary housing. The building is owned by: Berkshire Apartment Management.

The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by Pittsfield Fire Investigation Unit.

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