1 Man, 'Significant Number Of Birds And Snakes' Killed In House Fire: DFS

METHUEN, MA — A Tuesday morning house fire on Atkinson Street claimed the life of a Methuen man and killed a "significant number of birds and snakes," a Department of Fire Services official said.

“On behalf of the Methuen Fire Department, I want to express our heartfelt condolences to the family,” said Methuen Fire Chief David A. Toto said in a media release.

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“They lost a loved one and their home," Toto said. "This is a very sad day for them and the community.”

Firefighters responded to the blaze at 38 Atkinson St. shortly before 2:30 a.m., according to the release.

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"They immediately attempted to make entry but encountered heavy fire and were blocked by heavy clutter," the release said. "They moved to defensive operations to protect nearby homes."

Firefighters battled the blaze for more than four hours and three of four occupants were able to escape the burning house, according to the release.

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The fourth occupant was found dead in the single-family home, the release said.

"A significant number of birds and snakes also perished in the fire," Department of Fire Services Public Information Officer Jake Wark said in an email.

About 50 snakes in cages, a large number of birds and as many as four dogs died in the house fire, Toto said.

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The origin and cause of the fire remain under investigation, according to the release.

"That effort is hindered by the extent of the damage, but (fire investigators) have found no evidence that it was intentionally set and are looking at accidental factors," Wark said.

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