Southbridge, MA — Residents of three neighboring three-deckers were able to escape their homes after fire alarms alerted them to a blaze Thursday morning.

At approximately 11:52 a.m. on Thursday, April 9, 2026, the Southbridge Fire Department was dispatched to 9 Twine Hurst Place for reports of rear porches on fire.

While en route, Fire Chief Paul Normandin observed a column of heavy black smoke and upgraded the response to a second alarm. At approximately 11:56 a.m., Southbridge Engine 1 and Chief Normandin arrived to find heavy fire on the rear porches that had extended into the second and third floors. A third alarm was immediately struck, bringing additional departments to the scene. In total, approximately 40 firefighters from Southbridge and mutual aid departments responded.

Crews were able to knock down the bulk of the fire within approximately 24 minutes of arrival. The fire was placed under control after approximately one hour and nine minutes on scene.

The building at 9 Twine Hurst Place sustained significant damage, with exposure damage reported at 7 and 13 Twine Hurst Place. Total damage is currently estimated at $350,000.

During the incident, crews were also required to contain several small brush fires that ignited as a result of the main fire.

According to the Southbridge Fire Department, all residents were able to self-evacuate the three buildings due to working smoke alarms. One resident was transported to Harrington Memorial Hospital for a medical emergency believed to be related to smoke inhalation.

The fire remains under investigation by the Massachusetts State Fire Marshal’s Office in conjunction with the Southbridge Fire Investigation Unit. The cause is currently undetermined.

During the incident, the Central Mass Sparks Rehab Unit and Canteen provided food, water, and supplies to both firefighters and displaced residents. The American Red Cross was requested to assist residents with long-term needs.

Quiet Corner Alerts maintains a policy of not revealing the names of victims or suspects unless they are actively being sought by law enforcement or pose a perceived threat to the public.

Gallery

“Every time the tones drop, it’s not a symbol responding — it’s someone’s neighbor, parent, or friend getting on that truck.”