CUMMINGTON, Mass. — An early morning fire on Friday claimed one adult resident's life and injured another.

 

The identity of the fatality had not been released. A joint press release was issued by Cummington Fire Chief Adam E. Dragon, State Fire Marshal Peter J. Ostroskey and Northwestern District Attorney David E. Sullivan.

 

"On behalf of the Cummington Fire Department, I want to express our heartfelt condolences to the victim's family," said Dragon. "This is a tragedy for them and our community."

 

The fire was first reported through a 911 call at about 5:37 Friday morning. The Fire Department responded the area of 9 Thayer Corner Road to find the single-family home fully involved. Firefighters immediately began suppression efforts but the structure sustained catastrophic damage. Firefighters battled the flames for more than two hours.

 

The home had working smoke alarms. One occupant was able to escape the fire and was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries. The preliminary investigation suggests that the second occupant went to retrieve personal belongings and did not escape.

 

"If there's a fire at home, it's urgent that everyone get out, stay out, and call 911," said Ostroskey. "A fire at home can become deadly in less than three minutes. Don't risk your life for items that can be replaced."

 

While the exact cause of the fire has not been determined, investigators from the Fire Department, State Police Fire & Explosion investigation Unit assigned to the State Fire Marshal's office, and State Police assigned to the Northwestern District Attorney's office have found no evidence that it was intentionally set.

 

Firefighters were able to keep the blaze from spreading to nearby homes, but one vehicle was damaged. 

 

The fire departments from Ashfield, Goshen, Plainfield, and Worthington provided mutual aid. The state Department of Fire Services deployed a rehab unit to support personnel at the scene and code compliance and enforcement officers supported the investigation.