Firefighters face intense blaze at vacant building in Wakefield

On Friday afternoon, firefighters in Wakefield, Massachusetts, responded to a significant fire at a vacant commercial building located at 102 Foundry Street. The blaze erupted around 2:30 p.m., sending thick black smoke billowing into the sky, which was visible for miles. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries, but the situation quickly escalated into a challenging battle for the firefighters, who had to contend with scorching temperatures while trying to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby structures. Witnesses described the scene as unprecedented, with one local resident, Yvonne Burbine, stating, "It's just different than anything I've ever seen. It just keeps going, and going, and going." Fire Chief Thomas Purcell emphasized the importance of hydration for the first responders, noting the extreme heat conditions they faced, which reached between 90 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. To support the firefighters, a medic tent was set up nearby, providing water and ice to ensure they remained hydrated during their efforts. Firefighters from Wakefield, Stoneham, Peabody, Saugus, and other neighboring towns joined forces to combat the fire, demonstrating remarkable teamwork and dedication. Local resident Terrie Ahern expressed her gratitude for their efforts, stating, "They are sweating their butts off and they are doing amazing," highlighting the personal stakes involved as she lives close to the affected area. The fire also impacted local transportation, leading to a temporary suspension of service at a nearby MBTA Commuter Rail station, although it has since reopened. As of Friday night, firefighters continued to monitor the site for hotspots, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.