Fatal Newton Fire Caused By Tossed Cigarette: Officials

NEWTON, MA —The improper disposal of cigarettes caused the three-alarm fire at 115 Oxford Road in Newton over the weekend that killed 62-year old Michael Shockett and put his 91-year-old mother in the hospital, Newton and state authorities said.

"When smoking fires start on the exterior of buildings, they can get a head start before anyone is made aware of the danger," said State Fire Marshal Peter Ostroskey. "It is so important for smokers to dispose of their cigarettes responsibly, outside, in a can filled with sand."

Fire officials said Michael Shockett, who would have celebrated his 63rd birthday later this month, frequently smoked under the first floor deck near the entrance to his basement living area. A pack of American Spirits Green cigarettes was found near where the fire started outside the door to the basement. The fire appears to have started around 4 a.m., according to a joint statement following an investigation by outgoing Newton Fire Chief Bruce Broia, Newton Police Chief David McDonald, Ostroskey and Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan.

"Our deepest condolences go out the victim's family and friends for their loss," said Proia.

There was no evidence of any working smoke or carbon monoxide alarms in the home and previously said "hoarding conditions" hampered their search for the son, after rescuing his mother.

"Tragedies sadly remind us of best practices residents can take to help prevent the loss of life and property in fires: Have working smoke alarms, a practiced home escape plan and clear pathways to all exits," said Proia.

Previously:

Woman Rescued, But Son Dies In Newton Fire

Gino Lucchetti To Be Next Newton Fire Chief

Patch reporter Jenna Fisher can be reached at Jenna.Fisher@patch.com or by calling 617-942-0474. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram (@ReporterJenna).