Rochester home a total loss after fire

ROCHESTER — A home at 524 Snipatuit Road was destroyed by fire Wednesday night, Rochester Fire Chief Scott Weigel reported.

No one was home at the time of the blaze, the chief said. No individuals were injured but two dogs died in the fire, he said. 

The call came in at about 6:47 p.m. When firefighters arrived on scene, fire was showing from the front door, front windows, right side garage area and rear deck, Weigel reported.

Mutual aid was provided by Marion, Mattapoisett, Lakeville, Acushnet and Freetown fire departments. 

Firefighters battled both frigid temperatures and the fire, which was brought under control in about 45 minutes, Weigel said. Crews remained on scene for several hours to fully extinguish hot spots. 

Approximately 22,000 gallons of water was used to fight the fire, which took 10 tanker shuttle water drops by mutual aid departments, Weigel noted.

State Police assigned to the State Fire Marshals Office, assisted by the Rochester Fire Department, are investigating the origin and cause of the fire.

Other agencies who helped on scene included the Rochester Police Department, the Providence Canteen, the state Department of Fire Services and the State Rehab unit.

The Rochester Highway Department assisted with sanding and salting the areas of Snipatuit Road, which iced over due to the volume of water being used.  

A cause for the fire has not yet been determined and the fire remains under investigation, Weigel reported.

“From all of us at the RFD, our hearts and prayers go out to the family who have suffered such a devastating and tragic loss,’’ Weigel said.