Red Cross Assists Fire Victims, Fund Established

Two families who lost their homes in a fire at 24 Water St. have received emergency assistance from the American Red Cross, including a cash stipend and some essential supplies such as clothing and temporary shelter.

But the fire in the two-story structure destroyed all of their belongings. Very little was able to be recovered following the fire.

The victims included a family of six on the first floor, including four children, and a woman and her dog, a Boston terrier, on the second floor, said Kevin Molt, the American Red Cross regional supervisor for Central Massachusetts.

The Milford Fire Department on Wednesday afternoon determined the fire was accidental, caused by a laptop computer that overheated after it was placed on top of cardboard boxes.

The fire started in the bedroom of a 16-year-old girl on the first floor, then quickly spread upstairs, through the walls, said Fire Chief John Touhey on Wednesday.

All of the occupants escaped unharmed.

The family of six is staying with relatives in Milford, Molt said. The woman who lived on the second floor was placed in a hotel that allows dogs.

The Red Cross gave both families assistance with food, clothing and some emergency supplies. The "comfort kits" included stuffed animals for the children, and for the dog too.

An account has been established at Milford Federal Savings & Loan to help the woman who lived on the second floor. Donations can be made at any branch with checks payable to the "Sheryl Rice Fire Fund" or mailed to Milford Federal Savings & Loan, 246 Main St., Milford, MA 01757, attn: customer service.