Fire Marshal Stephen D. Coan
Haverhill Fire investigators allege the cause of a two-alarm blaze Monday at a multi-family dwelling at 14 Nichols Street was intentionally set by juveniles. The office of Massachusetts Fire Marshal Stephen D. Coan will investigate.
“The origin of the fire is up on the third floor bedroom. And it was from an open flame coming in contact with combustible material,” Haverhill Fire Deputy Chief William Laliberty told WHAV. Laliberty said six families were displaced by Monday’s fire which caused extensive damage to the three-story structure.
“Third floor…received heavy fire damage, and the rest of the building, second, first and basement, received significant water damage,” Laliberty said. There will be further investigation by the state fire marshal’s office is ongoing.
“It was a set fire, and because it involves juveniles, we’re unable to comment further on that aspect of it,” Laliberty said.
No injuries were reported. Meanwhile, according to Deputy Laliberty, the structure will be subject to evaluation of whether it is rebuildable, or to be demolished.
Anyone with information may call state fire marshal’s Arson Hotline at (800) 682-9229.