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3-Alarm Fire Destroys Worcester Strip Mall, Demolition Ordered

Officials deemed the building a total loss, prompting a demolition order.

Overview

  • The fire began around 8 p.m. Monday at 821 Main St. and spread from the basement to a common attic and through the building.
  • An initial interior attack ended when a first-floor partial collapse into the basement forced firefighters to shift to defensive operations.
  • Thick smoke and swirling wind hindered access to the seat of the fire, Assistant Chief Adam Roche said.
  • Crews extinguished the blaze in about five and a half hours and remained Tuesday morning to douse hot spots and secure the scene.
  • No injuries were reported; the cause is under investigation, Main Street traffic was detoured between Oread and May streets, and three of four units were occupied by businesses with one under renovation.