Marblehead, MA - The Marblehead Fire Department was dispatched on August 31 following multiple 911 calls reporting a barn fire in the vicinity of 72 Pleasant Street.

Upon arrival, Chief Gilliland reported a 40’ x 40’, two-and-a-half-story barn with a walk-out basement, with visible fire showing from the first floor. A working fire was immediately transmitted, prompting additional mutual aid resources to the scene as well as coverage units to protect the town during the incident.

Marblehead Engines 1 and 2, along with Ladder 1, arrived shortly thereafter and deployed a handline to the main entrance. Crews forced entry into the structure and quickly located the seat of the fire on the first floor. An aggressive interior attack was initiated, supported by coordinated ventilation and suppression efforts, which allowed firefighters to bring the fire under control before it could extend to the upper levels or attic space.

On August 31 in Marblehead, Essex County, crews operated in challenging conditions to complete primary extinguishment, followed by extensive overhaul to ensure all hidden fire and potential extension points were addressed throughout the structure. Their swift actions were critical in limiting the fire to the first-floor area of origin.

The incident remains under investigation by the Marblehead Police Department, the Marblehead Fire Department, and Massachusetts State Police assigned to the Fire Marshal’s Office. The exact cause and origin have not yet been determined.

The Marblehead Fire Department extended its appreciation to mutual aid partners, including the City of Lynn Fire Department and Salem Fire Department & Emergency Management, as well as support agencies such as REHAB FIVE, Beauport Ambulance Service, Inc., and the Marblehead Police Department for their assistance in ensuring a safe and effective operation.