Crime & Safety

Highway Brush Fires Under Investigation by Local, State Officials

Marlborough and Northborough fire departments are looking for answers regarding recent fires on 290 and 495.

A small brush fire Saturday afternoon and several others found during the Monday evening commute, have local fire departments searching for answers. 

Saturday's fire was a contained event off to the side of 495 South in Marlborough. 

"It was a small brush fire and no injuries were reported," said State Trooper Todd Nolan. "One state police cruiser responded along with the ."

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Monday evening, however, eight small fires were reported in the eastbound lane of highway 290 spanning several miles of roadway, according to several eyewitnesses. Marlborough, Hudson and Northborough fire departments reportedly responded to the scenes which significantly backed up traffic in the area. State Police shut down several highway ramps while the fires were being battled. 

The cause of the fires is currently under investigation by area fire departments. 

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"On arrival we found a roadside fire (covering) about a quarter acre, said Chief David Durgin of the Northborough Fire Department. "We then received reports of multiple fires eastbound and up to 495. A First Alarm was transmitted recalling all off-duty and on-call firefighters. A second engine and a brush truck were dispatched. In total there were six quarter acre fires in Northborough. The fires are under investigation."

He said two additional fires were found in Marlborough which the Marlborough and Hudson departments handled. The South Middlesex State Fire Warden also responded to the scenes. 

Neither fire department has offered a definite reason for the fires as of yet, though Deputy Chief Ron Ayotte of Marlborough suggested the recent dry conditions could have something do with them. 

"The (fires) could have been the result of people carelessly disposing of their smoking materials," said Ayotte, who added that he was not on duty at the time of the incidents. 

Durgin later said, however, that he doubted the Northborough fires were caused by cigarettes, unless set deliberately, due to the large number of incidents.

There were no injuries or significant property damage reported in any of the fires.

Neither department suggested the possibility of arson as of this post. 

The fire departments have not offered a timeframe for the conclusion of their investigations, but whatever the cause, motorists are encouraged to call 911 should they see an active fire, and always dispose of smoking materials in a responsible fashion. 

"That's what ash trays are for," concluded Ayotte. 

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