Fire Destroys 52-Unit Building in Auburn: Cause Under Investigation

Photo byRobert HarknessonUnsplash

12 Fire Departments Respond to Auburn Inferno

AUBURN, Maine — A devastating overnight fire destroyed a large apartment building under construction in Auburn on Sunday, drawing a massive response from 12 fire departments and more than 100 first responders. The fire broke out at 138 Mount Auburn Avenue, where two four-story apartment buildings were being built, with one completely consumed by flames.

The Auburn Fire Department arrived at the scene within three minutes, finding heavy fire engulfing all four floors of the east building. "Firefighters from Auburn and Lewiston immediately took defensive positions to prevent the fire from spreading to the adjacent west building," said the fire department in a Monday press release. Despite their efforts, the fire quickly escalated to a fourth alarm.

Building Without Sprinkler System Burned Rapidly

According to Auburn’s Planning and Permitting Director Eric Cousens, the building was still under construction, meaning it lacked a sprinkler system to contain the flames. As a result, firefighters faced significant challenges in bringing the blaze under control.

Flying debris sparked several spot fires on nearby properties, but firefighters successfully prevented the flames from spreading to any other buildings. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

Eyewitnesses Watch in Shock

Jeffrey Sirois, who witnessed the fire, described the scene as harrowing. "This place was burning right to the ground. Just flames blaring," Sirois said. He watched with his friend Dustin until 1 a.m., observing the flames engulf the structure.

Investigation into Cause of Fire Underway

The Maine Office of the State Fire Marshal is leading the investigation into the cause of the fire. Cousens noted that while the site was regularly secured, it is unclear whether there was private security present at the time of the incident.

The 52-unit apartment building destroyed in the fire was expected to be completed by January or February of 2025, while the remaining 50-unit building was slated for completion by November 2024. The project was valued at over $15 million, and the loss is a significant blow to Auburn’s housing development efforts.

Community Reacts to Setback

"It's pretty disappointing that these are gone," Cousens said. "It’s hard enough to get a project approved and financed. For something like this to happen after all that work is just devastating."

Mount Auburn Avenue, which was closed due to the fire, has since reopened, although officials continue to monitor the area for safety. Updates on traffic and public safety will be posted on the Auburn Fire Department and Auburn Police Department’s social media pages.

Attribution source: Newscentermaine.com