Cambridge fire investigating fatal house fire on Esther Avenue (update)

Regional police and Cambridge fire crews continue to investigate a fatal house fire that occurred on Monday afternoon.

It happened in the Blair Road and Esther Avenue area just before 5:30 p.m.

Cambridge Fire said five stations responded to the blaze, encountering “heavy smoke and significant fire” coming from the front of the house. 

In a release from the fire department, they note that crews began interior firefighting operations, searching for occupants before being forced out due to increasing heat and “intensifying fire conditions.” Shortly after, the main floor of the home became engulfed in flames and a floor partially collapsed in the residence.

Cambridge Fire said the Office of the Fire Marshal has since been notified, while one male occupant has been located deceased. The building's structural integrity will need to be assessed for safety before crews can enter the residence once again for investigative purposes. OFM will be assisting crews to determine the “origin, cause and circumstances” of the fire. 

In a release sent to CityNews 570, Cambridge Fire Chief Brian Arnold said the service is saddened by the tragic loss of life. 

“We extend our sincere condolences to the family and friends for their loss,” said Arnold. “Cambridge Firefighters performed admirably and I commend them for their efforts. No firefighter ever wants to encounter such an outcome, and we mourn along with the community.”

CFD investigating the origin, cause and circumstances of a fire fatality this evening on Esther Ave. in @cityofcambridge. 1 male occupant found deceased in the home. @WRPSToday assisting. @ONFireMarshal notified. Please avoid the area. More info to be released when available. pic.twitter.com/Ihj3J96Fqk

— Cambridge Fire Dept (@CambridgeFD) January 25, 2022