At approximately 1:55 a.m. on Saturday, September 19, 2026, the Rochester Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 30 Plante Street. Firefighters arrived to find heavy fire involving the enclosed porch of a single-story home, as well as a nearby shed and vehicle. A box alarm was struck to request mutual aid and recall off-duty Rochester firefighters.

Neighbors noticed the fire and alerted the two residents, allowing both to escape before firefighters arrived. Smoke alarms were present in the home but did not alert the occupants. Both residents were later transported to a local hospital for evaluation, and one sustained a burn injury. Firefighters removed a cat from the home, but the animal did not survive. The American Red Cross was contacted to assist the displaced residents.

Crews knocked down the heaviest fire from the exterior before entering the home from the side and rear. Firefighters searched the basement and first floor, extinguished the remaining fire, and checked the attic for extension. Eversource disconnected power after the home’s electrical service line was exposed to the fire.

After the fire was brought under control, Rochester Fire Department investigators determined that it began inside the enclosed porch and spread into the kitchen and attic. Several medical oxygen cylinders stored on the porch failed during the fire, which was consistent with reports of explosions and may have intensified the fire. The extent of the damage prevented investigators from identifying a specific ignition source. The cause is classified as undetermined.

“The quick actions of the neighbors may have prevented a more serious outcome,” said Fire Chief Nick Marique. “This fire also serves as an important reminder to test smoke alarms regularly and make sure they can be heard from every sleeping area.”

The Rochester Fire Department thanks the Dover, Farmington, and Somersworth fire departments for assisting at the scene. The Milton, Barrington, and Berwick fire departments provided station coverage in Rochester. The department also thanks the Rochester Public Safety Dispatch Center, Rochester Police, Frisbie EMS, and Eversource for their assistance.