23-06-2025
Cause of Westfield fatal fire determined
WESTFIELD — A fatal apartment fire on Franklin Street last week was likely caused by smoking.
Investigators believe, based on an examination of the scene, witness interviews, and other evidence, the fire was accidental and most likely started with smoking materials on a living room couch, said Jake Wark, spokesperson for the state Department of Fire Services.
Just after 10:30 p.m. June 12, the Westfield Fire and Police departments responded to 911 calls from 36 Franklin St. The arriving engine company observed fire showing from a first-floor apartment, with witnesses reporting one person trapped inside.
Firefighters battled heavy smoke and flames, and later located the resident, a woman with limited mobility, dead inside the building.
Smoking materials were the leading cause of fire deaths in Massachusetts last year and almost every year for decades, Wark said in an emailed response to questions.
'There's no truly safe way to smoke, but it's especially dangerous to smoke when you're drowsy or impaired,' Wark said. 'If you or someone you love must smoke, please use a heavy ashtray on a sturdy surface. Fill it with water or sand, and be sure to put it out, all the way, every time.'
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