Wells, Maine Fire Ruled Accidental

According to a press release from the Maine Department of Public Safety's Shannon Moss, a Sunday fire in the Southern Maine town of Wells has been ruled accidental.

The press release explains that the Wells Fire Department's crews were called to 149 Atlantic Avenue at about 5:55 PM on Sunday (June 14th) after receiving multiple 911 calls reporting a structure fire.  Even before firefighters arrived, heavy flames and smoke could be seen from the area.

Because of the intensity of the fire, officials requested additional assistance, eventually raising the response to a fourth alarm to bring in firefighters and equipment from surrounding communities.

Investigators determined the homeowner had just changed a propane tank and was preparing to grill when a fire broke out near the grill, causing a small explosion.  Officials say the homeowner attempted to get a fire extinguisher, but the flames spread too quickly and engulfed the home.

The residence sustained significant damage, and neighboring homes on both sides also suffered damage from the heat and fire exposure.

Fire officials credited the rapid response and aggressive firefighting efforts of the Wells Fire Department and the many mutual aid agencies with preventing the blaze from spreading even further.

The homeowner and his daughter were both near the grill when the fire started.  The homeowner was treated at the scene for minor burn injuries, while his daughter was not hurt.  No firefighters or EMS personnel were injured during the incident.

The Wells Fire Department and the State Fire Marshal's Office have determined the fire was accidental.