A three-alarm fire tore through a three-story building on Haverhill Street in Lawrence on Sunday afternoon, sending a thick column of black smoke across the city and triggering a major emergency response. Firefighters, backed up by mutual-aid crews, worked to knock down the flames as nearby streets were shut down and residents were kept at a distance. The situation remained active and details were still limited while crews continued operations at the scene.
According to Boston 25 News, the blaze involved a three-story structure on Haverhill Street, with mutual-aid companies called in and thick black smoke visible for miles. Boston 25 reported that its crews were heading to the scene and described the fire as a developing story on July 12, 2026.
A familiar challenge for Lawrence firefighters
Large, wood-framed multiunit homes have posed tough challenges for Lawrence firefighters in recent years, with fast-moving flames that can threaten neighboring buildings and displace families. The Boston Globe previously covered a March 2022 triple-decker fire that forced evacuations and left multiple units uninhabitable, underscoring how quickly older properties in the city can escalate into major incidents.
Where to look for updates and safety notes
Officials had not released information about any injuries or the cause of Sunday’s fire in initial reports, and the incident was still unfolding. Anyone seeking the latest details should monitor local media and official channels. For live coverage, see Boston 25 News, and check the City of Lawrence civic alerts at City of Lawrence for official notices. Authorities are urging people to avoid Haverhill Street while crews remain on scene, and we will update this story as more information becomes available.
