New Bedford Crews Knocked Down Restaurant Fire

New Bedford, MA — September 20 — The New Bedford Fire Department received several calls about a fire at 1500 Acushnet Ave., which housed the Gouveias Grill in a four-story building that combined commercial space with residential apartments above.

When the fire department arrived, Command Unit 1 noticed thick smoke coming from the restaurant on the ground floor.

Engine 8 advanced a hose line through the back entrance, while Ladder 4 entered from the front and started searching for people inside the apartments above.

Engine 9 provided a steady water supply and helped Engine 7 with more hoses.

Engine 1 was called in due to the building's size and the need for more equipment on the upper floors.Ladder 1 placed its aerial ladder and ground ladders to help both residents and firefighters move around safely.

Engine 8 quickly controlled the fire with support from other units.

After the fire was under control, firefighters worked for several hours to remove smoke and harmful gases from the residential areas.

About 30 residents had to leave their homes. New Bedford Emergency Management and the American Red Cross provided support to those affected, while EMS and police officers also contributed to the response.

No one was injured in the incident. The New Bedford Fire Investigation Unit is still looking into the cause of the fire. The fire was limited to the restaurant area, allowing the residential tenants to return home once the building was safe.