Photos by Jeffrey Hastings
MANCHESTER, NH – Manchester fire crews were dispatched to 137 Hazelton Court at about 1:30 a.m. on July 23 after a neighbor reported heavy smoke and fire coming from the rear of the home, not far from Brown Avenue.
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First arriving Engine Companies reported heavy fire from the rear of the building and extreme difficulty in gaining access through the front door, due to what fire officials described as “hoarder’s conditions.”
All companies were in a rescue mode in an effort to find the occupant, a 58-year-old male, who was found within minutes in the kitchen. He was evacuated through the side door and transported to the Elliot Hospital where he was pronounced dead.
Additional fire companies extinguished the fire which had extended throughout the first floor, followed by massive overhaul.
The property was deemed a total loss due to heavy fire and heat conditions.
The victim’s identity was not released pending notification of family.