By Ron Ayotte, Contributing Writer
Marlborough – A bolt of lightning from the thunderstorm that barreled through the Metrowest area on the afternoon of July 6 caused a fire in a residential structure at 26 South St. in Marlborough.
The fire was reported at 6:56 p.m. with the first alarm being struck at that time. Engine 1, Engine 2, Engine 3, Tower 1 and Rescue 1 responded along with Car 6 and Car 2. Patriot EMS also responded.
Upon arrival, a fire was found in the basement of the home. That fire was knocked down and extinguished, but the entire area from where the lightning bolt struck had to be checked (what firefighters call “overhauled”) to make sure there was no extension of fire through the walls to the other parts of the home.
The residents of the home made it out safely. Firefighters were also searching the structure for one of the resident’s dogs, who may have been hiding or had escaped. The dog was eventually found.
Off duty personnel were recalled to staff the Marlborough Fire Department’s reserve apparatus. The Red Cross was called in to assist the residents with temporary housing assistance. The incident was terminated at 10:32 p.m.
Battalion Chief Brian LaCroix initially estimated damages to the home to be approximately $70,000.
photos/Ron Ayotte
