An early morning fire ripped through a multi-family home in Quincy on Wednesday, forcing seven residents out into the street and sending a heavy cloud of black smoke over the neighborhood. Fire crews swarmed the two-story building at 21 Harrison St., working into the morning to knock down the flames and chase lingering hot spots. Officials reported no immediate injuries as firefighters moved through the charred structure.
Residents escape, pets missing
All seven people inside made it out safely, but several family pets, including a dog and a cat, were reported missing, according to 7NEWS. "My family's been here for over 50 years," resident Chrissy Broderick told the station, describing how neighbors rushed over "with bags of clothes and food" for those suddenly displaced. Crews were still combing through the building for hot spots as investigators began their work, the outlet reported.
Fire crews battle blaze
Firefighters arrived to find heavy flames tearing through the rear of the home and thick smoke visible for blocks as they attacked what local reports identified as a two-alarm blaze. According to WCVB, crews stayed on scene into the morning, and there were no reports of civilian injuries. Nearby streets were shut down while firefighters secured the area, vented the building and worked to clear the smoke.
Investigation underway
The cause of the fire remained under investigation Wednesday, and city officials had not yet announced any long-term housing plans for those forced from the home, according to 7NEWS. Neighbors and bystanders stepped in to help families with immediate needs at the scene, while crews prepared to stay into the afternoon to fully put out smoldering areas. Authorities asked anyone with information to contact local officials as investigators canvass the block.
