MANCHESTER, NH – Fire officials say an early morning fire Sunday on Sommerville Street was accidental, caused by a malfunctioning gas fire parlor heater.
Just before 4 a.m. on Sept. 25 fire crews were dispatched to 589 Sommerville St. where they encountered heavy fire and smoke conditions coming from a third-floor apartment.
One firefighter suffered a back injury, according to Distrct Chief Michael Gamache.
The building is a large red-and-white multi-family three-story unit with a storefront on the Wilson Street side.
Six families reside there, according to fire officials. Twelve adults and 12 children were evacuated. Ultimately, a family of five was being assisted by the Red Cross until they can go back. The apartment where the fire originated was furnished but unoccupied, said Gamache.
The fire was quickly brought under control. Damage is estimated at $10,000.
