HOULTON, Maine — Eight cats and two dogs are believed to have perished in a house fire Friday afternoon that displaced a family of three.
About 19 firefighters were called to the 26 Park St. home of David and Darcy Smith shortly before 3 p.m. Friday when a passing motorist reported smoke coming from the Smith’s two-story home.
Houlton Fire Chief Milton Cone said Monday that the fire is believed to have started in the kitchen area, but the exact origin had yet to be determined. The Maine State Fire Marshall’s Office was called in to investigate.
A member of the Houlton Fire Department smashes out a window to ventilate smoke from the 26 Park St. home of David and Darcy Smith Friday afternoon. The fire was contained to the kitchen of the home. (Joseph Cyr)
Upon arrival, firefighters observed smoke coming from the roof line of the home. The crew was able to contain the fire to the kitchen area, but the rest of the house received extensive smoke, heat and water damage.
Firefighters cleared the scene at 6:43 p.m.
According to Cone, the family did have insurance. A Disaster Action Team from the American Red Cross of Maine is working with the family and will remain in contact with them, providing financial assistance and community referrals, as they recover.
The American Red Cross provides food, clothing and emotional support to people affected by home fires and other disasters. Individuals wishing to support Red Cross Disaster Services can call (800) RED-CROSS or visit MaineRedCross.org.
An online fundraising page has been set up for the family at https://www.gofundme.com/evemxz-lost-everything-in-a-house-fire.
A member of the Houlton Fire Department makes his way into the 26 Park St home of David and Darcy Smith Friday afternoon. Fire broke out in the kitchen area of the Smith’s home. Two dogs and eight cats are believed to have perished.
(Joseph Cyr)
