NEW BEDFORD, MA – Preliminary investigations have determined there was no suspicious activity involved in the deadly fire that tore through a two-family home on Cotter Street Monday morning, according to officials.
The fire claimed the life of 88-year-old Alfred Martin, who was pronounced dead at the scene, the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office confirmed. The medical examiner’s office is working to determine the exact cause of death.
Firefighters managed to bring the fire under control in about 90 minutes, but the building sustained significant damage. Four other residents were taken to the hospital for treatment of smoke inhalation and other injuries. Their conditions have not been released.
While officials believe the fire was accidental, the exact cause is still under investigation. Further details will be provided as the inquiry progresses.
