The state's fire marshal said the tragic fire in Gloucester that claimed the life of a man last weekend is believed to be accidental, though an exact cause is still unknown.
The blaze completely destroyed an apartment complex and temple in the eight-alarm fire that broke out early Saturday morning.
It claimed the life of Bob Taylor, an older gentleman who lived alone in the building for about 20 years. Taylor's remains have not yet been found.
Sunday's snow storm halted recovery efforts at the scene of the deadly fire.
Because of harsh weather conditions, his body remained inside the fire scene Sunday and has still not been found. Investigators have been using cadaver dogs, heavy equipment and hand tools as they painstakingly search through the rubble.
"In my 10-plus years as fire marshal, we have never left the scene of a tragedy without the remains of the victims," said Massachusetts State Fire Marshall Steve Coan.
The fire began in the basement of the Lorraine Apartments and spread quickly. Firefighters were able to safely evacuate the first three floors of the building, before fierce flames chased them out.
Crews attempted to rescue Taylor through a window, but according to Gloucester Fire Chief Barry McKay, the flames were too intense.
"The fire was blasting so badly, two of my firefighters had to bail out under emergency conditions simply to survive," McKay told WBZ-TV.
The Lorraine Apartment building was reduced to rubble, as was the adjacent Temple Avahat Achim. Rabbi Samuel Barth vowed to rebuild the temple, which was the home of worship for more than 200 families.
Other neighboring buildings were saved by the snowpack on their roofs, which extinguished burning embers.
The cause of the blaze has not been determined but the investigation continues to be ongoing, Coan said.
A fund has been set up to help the victims of the Gloucester fire.
The Gloucester Fund
45 Middle Street
Gloucester, MA 01930
978-490-0001
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