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At approximately 4:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 8, 2014, the New Bedford Communications Center received a 911 call from a 9-year old boy who reported that his house was on fire. The New Bedford Police Department arrived first on the scene at the reported dwelling fire at 322 Dartmouth Street and the New Bedford Fire Department arrived shortly thereafter. Responding officers found a two-story wood frame, cottage-style home with smoke visible on the first and second floor.
New Bedford Police officers entered the building and discovered an unconscious female on the second floor landing. Officers carried her to safety and performed first aid.
Firefighters also entered the home and rescued a second occupant from the second floor. The second victim, a male, suffered second and third degree burns over 50% of his body.
Both victims were treated on the scene by emergency responders including New Bedford Emergency Medical Services personnel and were then transported to Rhode Island Hospital.
There are no other injuries to report. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
New Bedford Police Chief David Provencher praised the first responders for their heroism and credited the 9-year old boy who placed the 911 call with saving the lives of the other occupants.
New Bedford Fire Chief Michael Gomes also praised the rapid response and selfless actions of the first responders and the boy. Fire safety training is provided to all third graders in the New Bedford Public Schools to prepare them to take action during emergencies like this,” Chief Gomes said. He added that the functioning smoke detectors and swift actions of the 9 year-old boy were lifesaving.
