Photo Story: Flames Engulf Mass. Building

March 26, 2013
A three-alarm fire tore through a multi-story building formerly occupied by Columbia Electric in Taunton on March 16.

A three-alarm fire tore through a multi-story building formerly occupied by Columbia Electric in Taunton on March 16. 

Firefighters were called at 4:15 p.m. and a second alarm struck prior to arrival due to heavy smoke visible as the chief left the station.

The vacant four-story brick, mill construction was well involved and fire was already burning through the roof. Sections of the roof collapsed quickly and firefighters began a defensive attack.

Firefighters protected an adjacent exposure, a three-story mill building about 15 feet from the Charlie side, with a master stream and 2 1/2-inch handline.

The fire reached three alarms and mutual aid from Raynham, Bridgewater, Norton, Dighton and Rehoboth were called.

The fire was declared under control around 6 p.m. and all but one engine and one ladder were released by 10 p.m.

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