Maine State Fire Marshal’s Investigate Two Separate Fires In Oxford And Kennebec Counties

Maine fire officials are investigating two recent fires: one in Kennebec County and the other in Oxford County.

The first incident took place last Friday, November 22nd, in Augusta. According to the Maine Department of Public Safety, firefighters were called to a residence on Pike Street. Witnesses told dispatchers they saw the house at 33 Pike Street in flames, and several men running from the scene just before 3:30 in the afternoon.

"The home, which has been vacant for some time, sustained significant fire damage. Working with Augusta Police, investigators identified two individuals who had been squatting inside the residence. The fire was determined to have originated from a 20-pound propane tank attached to a portable 'buddy heater.' A rubber supply hose came into contact with a lit candle, igniting the fire."

While the men who ran from the home were later located and interviewed, investigators are still actively looking into the circumstances surrounding the fire. No charges have been filed yet, but the Kennebec County District Attorney’s Office has been looped in to see about the possibility of criminal charges being filed at a later date.

The building sustained damage due to the heavy fire, but thankfully, no injuries were reported.

Read More: Meddybemps Fire Investigation Reveals Identity Of Victim

Lt. Aaron M. Turcotte with the Maine Department of Public Safety says the second fire broke out in a single-family home in Roxbury Monday afternoon, just past 2 PM.

When firefighters arrived, they found the home on Horshoe Valley Road completely engulfed in flames.

"Investigators have determined that the fire originated in the immediate vicinity of the home’s woodstove and chimney system, most likely as the result of a chimney-related issue. The residence is considered a total loss. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and no pets were harmed during the incident."

Fire officials remind folks to take care when heating homes. Proper placement and ventilation of alternative heat sources is important, as is proper inspection and maintenance of things like wood stoves and chimneys.

The Office of the Maine State Fire Marshal has put together a list of safety tips and requirements for those using alternative heat sources. You can click here for more safety information.