SFD Battles 2-Alarm Fire Early Wednesday

Ten residents are displaced after a fire early Wednesday.

The Salem Fire Department responded to 270 Washington Street at 2 a.m. after a 911 call came in from a tenant reporting a fire.

Salem Fire immediately dispatched Engine 1, Engine 5 and Ladder 1 when they arrived, they reported fire showing from between two buildings.

Within two minutes, SFD declared a working fire, bringing additional Salem engines to the scene and requesting the help of Beverly, Peabody and Lynn  to the city for station coverage. Just minutes later the fire went to a 2-alarm fire and Beverly came to the scene and sending Marblehead to the city for station coverage.

According to SFD, the outside fire, which seemed to have originated near a motor scooter against the building, extended into the basement through a window and traveled to the upper floors via a plumbing chase. Firefighters worked aggressively to contain the fire to one building.

Four (4) 1-3/4" lines were run and charged to knock down the fire. One line to the scooter fire outside the building and one line to the basement, first floor and second floor each.

The building at 268 Washington St., which is home to Major Magleashe’s Pub, was not damaged.

Ten adults were displaced from the five unit building and the American Red Cross was notified.

National Grid gas and electric were called. The city electrical department and the Salem Fire Dept. Fire Investigation Unit were also called to the scene. Atlantic Ambulance, Rehab 5 and Salem Police also responded. No injuries were reported. The fire is still under investigation.