A fast-moving blaze tore through a three-story home near Wells Beach on Sunday, sending thick, black smoke into the sky and forcing police to shut down Atlantic Avenue as firefighters rushed in. Officials said there was no immediate word on injuries while crews worked to contain the fire, and neighbors and beachgoers were told to stay clear so emergency workers could operate.
As reported by NBC Boston, Wells Police posted video of the flames on Facebook and warned that Atlantic Avenue was closed while first responders dealt with the three-story building. People in the busy beach area were urged to steer clear while firefighters attacked the blaze.
The Portland Press Herald reported that crews were called around 4:30 p.m. to the area of 129 Atlantic Ave, and that the Wells Fire Department joined police at the scene to battle heavy plumes of smoke. According to the Press Herald, officials had not immediately identified a cause for the fire and still had no information to share about possible injuries.
WHDH described the fire as fast-moving and noted video from the scene showing the house being consumed by flames. Local coverage indicates the home on Atlantic Avenue was heavily damaged as crews worked to knock the fire down.
Wells Beach Neighborhood and Summer Traffic
The Town of Wells notes that Atlantic Avenue ends at public parking and beach access and that Wells Beach is a busy summer destination, which means the area can quickly fill with visitors as the season ramps up. The town's beach rules and parking information point out how tightly homes and public beach lots line Atlantic Avenue, a factor that complicated access for emergency vehicles early on.
Where to Get Updates
Authorities have not yet released details on the cause of the fire or on any injuries, and local news outlets along with the Wells Police Facebook page are carrying the early footage and updates. This story will be updated as officials release more information through those channels and through town emergency pages.
