ASHBURNHAM, MA — The Ashburnham Fire Department responded to a single residence structure fire at 98 S. Main Street at 4:31 a.m. on Nov. 20.
The fire was possibly caused by a candle that had been knocked over, according to fire officials.
Upon arrival, crews discovered heavy fire coming out of the side of the left door and front left windows.
Lt. Mike Wilson led his crew to knock down the fire first from the exterior and then made entry upon arrival of Ladder 1 with a crew led by Lt. Bill White.
The fire was knocked down almost immediately by both crews, but it was determined that fire had spread into the attic area.
Upon the arrival of other fire companies, further extensive actions were taken to extinguish fire in the attic areas.
The structure sustained serious fire and heat damage as a result of the incident.
Deputy Chief Leary led command of the scene, with the assistance of Westminster, Winchendon, Gardner and Ashby fire departments.
Fitchburg Fire covered Ashburnham Fire Headquarters until Ashburnham crews were able to return.
The fire was investigated by the District 8 Fire Investigation Unit.
The cause of the fire is considered accidental at this time.
