Massive Blaze That Ripped Through Reading Building Believed To Be Arson: Fire Officials

READING, MA — Fire officials believe a massive blaze that consumed a three-story building was intentionally set, according to a statement.

The fire was July 9 at 186 Summer Ave.

“Based on our examination of the scene, witness interviews, and other evidence, we believe this fire was intentionally set,” Reading Fire Chief Richard Nelson said in a statement. “I want to be clear how serious this incident was. It went to three-plus alarms, two structures were completely destroyed, and several firefighters were treated for heat exhaustion after working for more than 12 hours to battle the flames.”

An off-duty firefighter reported the blaze just after 1 a.m. Firefighters responded and found heavy fire at the three-story historic home and barn. The home was unoccupied and under construction at the time.

Firefighters fought the blaze until 2 p.m. the next day.

Fire officials are asking anyone with knowledge of the fire to share information through the Arson Watch Reward Program. Tips are confidential and those sharing information may remain anonymous. The program offers rewards of up to $5,000 for information that solves, detects, or prevents arson crimes.

You can call the Arson Watch Reward Program at 1-800-682-9229.