14 Buildings Burn in Boston

BOSTON -- Fire crews in Lawrence are at the scene of a seven-alarm blaze near the intersection of Parker and Market streets. The fire started at about 2:30 a.m.

At least 14 buildings containing both residential and commercial space were destroyed in the fire. One of the buildings is a home for special needs residents. Officials said they all got out safely.

"Currently, this has escalated to 14 buildings, 26 occupied units, two commercial occupancies. We also have a program here for mentally challenged individuals, and we just lost this building," said Lawrence Fire Chief Peter Takvorian.

Officials said the fire started in the empty Millennium Club and quickly spread to nearby buildings.

"It was an unoccupied nightclub that was being renovated. That is where this fire started. An ambulance company going by noticed flames on the second and third floors," Takvorian said.

Takvorian said investigators consider the fire to be suspicious.

"Absolutely it is suspicious. We have a task force here. We investigate every suspicious fire in this city," Takvorian said.

Officials said the weather and frozen hydrants are hampering their attempts to fight the fire. It took more than four hours to contain the blaze.

"It is a very difficult fight right now. We are fighting water pressure losses and a pretty good wind, cold temperatures. We have approximately nine out-of-town companies that are on scene, mutual aid that is helping us fight this fire," Takvorian said.

At least one person was taken to the hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation. It is unclear if there were any other injuries.

Several roads in the area of the fire are closed, and drivers are asked to seek alternative routes. According to SmartRoute's Jeff Larson, Parker Street from Merrimack to South Union streets, Salem Street, Springfield Street and Market Street are closed. Larson said the nearby MBTA commuter rail could be delayed by the fire.

The state fire marshal is at the scene, as well as the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency.

The Red Cross is helping displaced residents, but they said they do not know how many people have lost their homes. A shelter has been set up at the South Lawrence East Elementary School.