Fire Displaces Families in Gloucester Apartment Blaze

A significant fire broke out at a multi-family home in Gloucester, Massachusetts, on Saturday night, leading to the rescue of five residents and the hospitalization of three police officers for smoke inhalation. The fire, which began on a balcony lacking sprinklers, resulted in heavy flames on the second floor, prompting a second alarm response. Emergency responders from neighboring towns assisted Gloucester crews in extinguishing the blaze and performing multiple rescues using ground ladders. Three residents were sent to hospitals, and about 25 people were displaced as the building was rendered uninhabitable. Gloucester Fire Chief Eric Smith and Police Chief Edward Conley commended the heroic efforts of all first responders, which prevented a tragic loss of life. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by local and state authorities.