3 Multi-Alarm Fires In Boston Displace 65, Cause $2M Damages

WEST ROXBURY, MA — More than 65 people are without a home after three multiple-alarm blazes across Roxbury and West Roxbury had Boston Fire Department busy back-to-back Saturday morning. There were no serious injuries reported at any of the fires, according to the Boston Fire Commissioner, but damages to the buildings were serious.

The scene when firefighters arrived this morning in West Roxbury just before 6 a.m. was one of flames pouring out of the three-story apartment building at 1212 VFW Parkway. The building was part of a complex along the parkway and connected to other buildings. The fire department immediately started ordering more alarms, by the end it was a six-alarm fire. Some 34 residents were displaced and officials estimated that fire caused $2 million in damages.

"Where to begin in commenting on the past several hours. [Three] multiple alarms fires all with challenges for firefighters. All I can say is outstanding work by everyone," said Boston Fire Commissioner Joe Finn on social media.

Not just West Roxbury

The six-alarm fire came almost at the same time as a two-alarm fire across the city in Roxbury on Groom Street. Overnight firefighters also battled a four-alarm fire on Dale St. in Roxbury.

Nineteen were displaced in the fire at 55 Dale Street because of a fir that started just after 3 a.m.

The fire at 3 Groom St. caused about $500,000 in damages and left 12 people without a home.

Boston fire officials say Red Cross are out helping those affected.

The commissioner thanked Mayor Marty Walsh for making sure Boston firefighters were fully equipped.

"Nights and mornings like we just had are rare, but they do happen. I repeatedly state you need boots on the ground, a fully staffed fire department and reliable apparatus and gear. Thank you Mayor Marty Walsh for the support," said Finn on Twitter.

-Photo at top what first arriving companies faced on arrival at the VFW Parkway fire. They immediately ordered a 2nd Alarm followed shortly by a 3rd Alarm. Courtesy: Boston Fire Department.