Fire Rips Through Adams Street Tenament

A fire early Saturday morning causes extensive damage to a 2 1/2 story tenament on Adams Street in the North End of New Bedford.

District Chief Jeff Pothier tells WBSM News, fire crews were called to the scene shortly after 1:15am. "Engine Seven from Durfee Street was the first unit to arrive, and they were met with heavy fire from the rear of the building, heavy fire that extended into the attic."

A second alarm was sounded shortly thereafter. Pothier says firefighters did a good job bringing the fire under control while protecting surrounding buildings. "They did a nice job knocking down that main body of fire," said Pothier

One occupant on the second floor escaped safely. Other floors were vacant. No injuries were reported. Fire crews were on scene throughout the night wetting down hot spots.

The fire is believed to have started in the rear of the building, but Pothier says the cause is under investigation by New Bedford Fire Prevention, city Police and the State Fire Marshall's Office.