GREENFIELD – The state fire marshal says the fatal fire Sept. 25 that claimed four lives was caused by improper disposal of smoking materials.
After an investigation by State Fire Marshal Peter J. Ostroskey, Northwestern District Attorney David Sullivan, Greenfield Fire Chief Robert Strahan and Greenfield Police Chief Robert H. Haigh Jr., officials today announced the cause of the fire at 140 Meridian St. that took the lives of Brian Tower, 48; Florenda Tower, 49; her son, Raymond Wood, 28, and his son, William Paul Clark, 5.
They said the fire originated in the first floor bedroom of the single family home and residents in the second floor bedroom were trapped by the fire. Investigators have ruled out other possible causes. The investigation also revealed that there were no working smoke alarms in the home.
Ostroskey said, “This fire that took four lives was a terrible tragedy. Last winter we lost 31 people to fire and over half of them also had no working smoke alarms. I urge everyone as you get your home ready for winter, protect your family and make sure you have working smoke alarms on every level.”
“This is fire prevention week and I ask everyone to check the date on their smoke alarms. Most only last 10 years before they need to be replaced,” said Ostroskey. “Consider purchasing alarms with 10-year, non-replaceable, non-rechargeable batteries that have a hush button feature to silence nuisance alarms,” he added, “They’ll be easier to maintain in good working order.”
Sullivan said, “My deepest sympathy is with the family and loved ones. Our thoughts are with them.”
Strahan said, “This fire has been very difficult for the community of Greenfield as well as the emergency services. I offer my condolences to the Tower, Wood and Clark families.”
Haigh said, “The Greenfield Police Department and their officers send their condolences to all those who were affected by this tragic event, and thank the community as a whole for their continued support for our local families and agencies.”