On Saturday, December 14, 2024, at 10:50 AM, the Rochester Fire Department was dispatched to 682 Portland Street for a reported building fire. Based on information gathered by dispatch, the Shift Commander (C-4) requested a Box Alarm before leaving Central Station. This proactive measure ensured that additional resources, beyond the on-duty shift, arrived at the scene as quickly as possible.

Engine-4 was the first unit to arrive on the scene and found a two-story barn fully engulfed in flames, with the fire threatening to spread to the attached home. Recognizing the magnitude of the task ahead, Engine-4 requested a Second Alarm upon arrival, which mobilized three additional fire companies and ensured coverage for the city by bringing companies into stations.

C-4 arrived shortly thereafter, assumed command of the incident, and confirmed that all occupants had safely evacuated the structure. Due to the extensive fire involvement in the 90-foot by 40-foot attached barn, C-4 requested a Third Alarm assignment to bring even more resources to the scene.

No victims were located in the building, and there were no reported injuries. Multiple mutual aid companies were deployed upon their arrival. Despite efforts, the fire had spread to the attic, as well as the second and first floors of the interior.

Following an investigation conducted by the State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Rochester Fire Marshal, the fire was determined to be accidental in nature. It originated under the rear of the barn and rapidly spread throughout the structure.

Rochester Fire received on-scene assistance from Rochester Police, Frisbie EMS, Public Works, Eversource, and fire departments from Somersworth, Dover, Farmington, Milton, Berwick, Lebanon, and Sanford, Maine. Additionally, fire departments from Newington, Barrington, and Sanford, Maine, provided station coverage, along with off-duty Rochester firefighters.