Fire Damages Algonquin Drive Home

Functioning smoke detectors and quick response from Tewksbury firefighters limited damage from a fire at 28 Algonquin Drive Tuesday night.

According to Fire Chief Michael Hazel, the fire began in the utility room in the basement of the home, around 10:20 p.m. A resident was alerted by a smoke alarm and found smoke coming from the utility room and called 911.

According to town records, the home is owned by Joseph and Sharon Sodergren.

Upon arrival firefighters found heavy smoke coming from the back door of the home.  Firefighters from the South Fire Station, Engine 2, forced entry into the basement through the rear bulkhead, said Hazel.

"A fire in the utility room was quickly extinguished and the area was checked for fire extension," he said. "The responding crews did a great job of containing and extinguishing the fire quickly and efficiently."

Crews from the Center and North Fire Stations also responded to the fire. Damage from smoke and flames was limited to the utility room and the surrounding area of the basement.

The fire investigator, building inspector, and wiring inspector were called to the scene by the Fire Captain on duty. Crews cleared the scene at 11:33 p.m.

No injuries were reported and the resident spent the night at a neighbor’s house. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. However, foul play is not suspected, said Hazel.