PITTSFIELD, Mass. — A Saturday night structure fire turned fatal when the sole occupant was pronounced dead at Berkshire Medical Center. 

 

The Fire Department responded to 7 Virginia Ave. just after 11:20 on Saturday night following a report of a fire. On arrival, firefighters observed flames coming from the first floor of the small one-story Cape and immediately made entry to attack the fire and search for occupants.

 

They located the sole resident, a woman in her 70s, and rescued her. Action Ambulance transported her to BMC.

 

According to the State Fire Marshal's Office, the woman later passed away. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will determine the cause and manner of her death.

 

"On behalf of the Pittsfield Fire Department, I want to express our heartfelt condolences to the woman’s family and loved ones," said Chief Thomas Sammons. "This is a terrible loss for them and the community."

 

Working in subzero temperatures with more than a foot of snow on the ground, firefighters were able to bring the blaze under control in about half an hour and remained on scene into the morning for overhaul and investigative support. 

 

The Hinsdale Fire Department provided rehab services to support firefighter health and safety at the scene.

 

The origin and cause of the fire are being investigated by the Fire and Police Departments, State Police fire investigators assigned to the State Fire Marshal's Office, and State Police assigned to the Berkshire District Attorney's office. They are supported by the Department of Fire Services' Code Compliance & Enforcement Unit.

 

The home suffered severe fire and water damage throughout and all utilities were disconnected outside the building. 

 

Preliminarily, investigators found no evidence that the fire was intentionally set. Based on an examination of the scene, they believe it began in the living room at the front of the home. They found no working smoke alarms.

 

"This is the fourth fatal fire this year where our investigators found no working smoke alarms," said State Fire Marsal Davine. "Take a few minutes to be sure you have working alarms on every level of your home. Test them every month to be sure they’re working properly. And please check in with older family members, friends, and neighbors to be sure they’re protected. If you need help installing, maintaining, or replacing your alarms, contact your local fire department."

 

Article updated 12:55 p.m. with new information.