Maine Fire Marshal’s Office Investigating Fatal Thursday Blaze

According to a press release from the Maine Department of Public Safety's Shannon Moss, the Maine State Fire Marshal’s Office is continuing to investigate a deadly structure fire that broke out Thursday afternoon in Aroostook County.

According to officials, the Mars Hill Fire Department was called to a home at 1197 Houlton Road in Westfield around 3:38 p.m. When crews arrived, they were met with heavy flames already consuming much of the building.

Family members at the scene told first responders that someone was likely still inside, prompting an immediate and extensive search effort. Firefighters and investigators remained on scene for several hours, working through the debris well into the evening.

Tragically, a deceased man was later found inside the structure.

The victim will be taken to the Office of Chief Medical Examiner in Augusta, where an autopsy will be performed to confirm his identity and determine the exact cause and manner of death.

Investigators are expected to stay at the scene through Friday as they continue to piece together what happened. Early information from witnesses suggests the fire may have started in the barn area, but officials stress that the cause has not yet been officially determined.

More details are expected to be released as the investigation continues.