Chelmsford Man Dies In Fire Started By Propane Torch: Officials

CHELMSFORD, MA —A Chelmsford man died on Thursday, one day after being severely injured in an outdoor fire that officials believe started with the use of a propane torch, the Chelmsford Fire Department said.

The fire department has not publicly revealed the name of the victim, but said he was an older adult male. No update was given about a second person injured in the fire.

According to authorities, firefighters were called to the area of 12 Stearns St. shortly after noon on Wednesday after a report of a fire with injuries.

When they arrived, firefighters encountered two injured people and a shed in the yard that was in flames. The fire was knocked down within 30 minutes, according to the fire department.

One victim was transported by MedFlight to a local medical center, where he succumbed to his injuries the following day, authorities said.

"On behalf of the Chelmsford Fire Department, I want to express our condolences to the victim's family and loved ones. This was a tragedy for them, and they remain in our thoughts," CFD Chief Gary Ryan said in a statement.

Ryan continued: "I'd also like to remind the community to use caution and follow manufacturer's instructions when using any kind of torch. A propane torch can reach temperatures of more than 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit and easily ignite combustible materials."

State Fire Marshal Peter Ostroskey said outdoor fire safety always is important, but especially while Massachusetts is in significant drought status.

"Even a small fire outdoors can quickly grow to dangerous sizes in these conditions," Ostroskey said. "Brush and wildland fires can burn acres of land, putting people and homes in jeopardy and presenting serious safety issues for firefighters."