A massive four-alarm fire that broke out at a six-family three-decker at 2 Gage St. Saturday morning has left at least two dead and three injured, city officials have confirmed.
The fire was reported around 3:31 a.m. Saturday. Two other buildings, 5 Eastern Ave. and 4 Gage St., were exposed to the fire and experienced damage, however, the extent of the damage is unknown at this time.
The Worcester Fire Department is still trying to complete a full search of all three floors of the residence and as of 4 p.m., firefighters are addressing the building’s remaining hot spots, officials said.
The building is a total loss.
Nearly 70 firefighters responded to the call, none of which sustained injuries while battling the blaze.
The cause of the fire is under investigation by Worcester’s Fire Investigation Unit, the Worcester Police Department and the office of Worcester County District Attorney Joseph D. Early Jr.
Jose Galeana, a resident of 2 Gage St., said he was sleeping in his bed when he awoke to a loud voice screaming, “Fire, get out!”
White smoke had filled his room and he struggled to breathe, Galeana said.
“I got so scared,” Galeana said. “Like I’m gonna die. I started looking and I saw the flame, the fire inside of the apartment. I’m like, ‘No, I’m done.’ So I started just running.”
Out front of the building, Galeana said he saw a young woman jump out of a third-floor window.
The Red Cross is on scene assisting families displaced by the fire, the city said.
In a news release, Mayor Joseph M. Petty, City Manager Edward M. Augustus Jr. and Worcester Police Department Chief Steven Sargent commented on the lives lost in the fire and praised the fire department for its swift response.
“I send my deepest sympathies to the families of the victims,” Petty said. “Tragedies such as this affect so many lives and our city will no doubt come together to support those who are suffering from such an unimaginable loss.”
Augustus said the victims and their families will be in his thoughts and prayers.
“Our first responders gave a valiant effort this morning, working to stop the fire from spreading, stabilizing the scene, providing emergency care on the scene, transporting victims,” said Augustus. “While we are deeply saddened by the loss of life, we are thankful to our public safety personnel for their selfless and professional response which prevented more damage and tragedy.”
Sargent noted the fire department’s quick arrival and assistance from the Auburn Police Department.
“I would like to express my sincere condolences to the families that have lost loved ones today,” said Sargent. “I appreciate the efforts of all the first responders that worked so hard to prevent further loss of life, including the Auburn Police Department who deployed their drone to assist us. We are committed to working closely with the Fire Department and our law enforcement partners to investigate the cause of the fire.”
This is a developing story. Return for more coverage.
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