Day: March 8, 2025

GLOUCESTER — Fire Chief Eric Smith reports that the Gloucester Fire Department, along with multiple mutual aid companies, has extinguished a third alarm, wind driven fire at 84 and 86 Washington St. Crews will remain on scene conducting overhaul operations, and the public is asked to continue avoiding the area.

At approximately 12:40 p.m., Gloucester Fire was dispatched to reported flames coming from the back porch of a structure, and upon arrival, crews found heavy fire at the rear of 84 Washington St. before it quickly extended to 86 Washington St. Firefighters initially began an interior attack, but due to the construction of the buildings, operations were shifted to an exterior attack for safety. Due to the severity of the fire, a second and third alarm was struck, bringing additional resources to the scene.

Both homes sustained significant damage, and power was cut to both structures as well as the surrounding area. National Grid is on scene and expects to restore power to the neighborhood by later this evening.

Fire crews will remain on scene conducting overhaul operations to ensure all hot spots are fully extinguished. A board up crew is assisting with a lift, and a fire watch will remain in place overnight.

The fire displaced a total of 14 residents, with five from 84 Washington St. and nine from 86 Washington St.The American Red Cross is assisting all displaced residents. No injuries occurred to residents or firefighters. 

The Gloucester Fire Department responded with Engines 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, Ladder 1, Forestry 3, C1, C2, and C3. Mutual aid assistance was provided by Rockport Engine 1, Manchester Ladder 1, Essex Engine 1, Hamilton Engine 1, and Beverly Engine 1. Beauport Ambulance stood by at the scene. Station coverage was provided by the Ipswich, Danvers, Salem, and Peabody Fire Departments. Additional resources on scene included the Gloucester Air Trailer, Rehab 5 and Inspectional Services.

Gloucester Police have closed Washington St. from Railroad Ave. to Prospect St. The road closure will be reduced as soon as possible.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Gloucester Fire Department and the Massachusetts Fire Marshal’s Office.

Support Local Gloucester Musician Nate Kidder

Nate Kidder, a beloved Gloucester musician and longtime resident, could use our support. If you don’t know Nate personally, you’ve likely heard him playing at local spots like The Rhumb Line, Gloucester House, Minglewood, and other favorite venues. He’s brought music and joy to our community—now it’s our turn to give back.

Please consider donating to his GoFundMe to help during this difficult time. Every contribution makes a difference!

https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-nate-kidders-fight-against-cancer?utm_campaign=natman_sharesheet_dash&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=facebook&utm_content=amp13_c-amp14_t1

Monadnock…

We were driving through Essex and decided to stop by Googans Galley on Martin St. Jim got himself a bakery treat (their own version of Pop Tart) and I got an Italian sandwich (delicious!!!). We hadn’t been there in a while and it seems they have stepped up the game a little bit in their offerings. There are some provisions, some souvenirs, sandwiches, baked goods and more. We seated ourselves at the window to watch Essex go by and enjoyed the atmosphere. We noticed some local vendors like our friends at Cape Ann Sea Salt have product available on the shelves, so kudos to both the staff at Googans and Cape Ann Sea Salt!! Great stop if you’re in the area. Check out the catering options as well if you find yourself in need.