1 firefighter hospitalized fighting blaze in Manchester, NH

MANCHESTER, N.H. (MyFoxBoston.com) - A large fire was extinguished in Manchester Sunday afternoon, but not after destroying the homes of 22 people.

According to officials on the scene, two multi-family homes were completely destroyed, displacing 22 people. A third building had minor exterior damage but residents were allowed back inside.

“When I looked out the window all you could see was a huge 3-story wall of flames,” Marie Jenkins, a neighbor, said.

Manchester Fire Chief Hank Marineau said one firefighter was hospitalized for heat exhaustion and chest pains. He is expected to be OK.

"It was a hot day," Martineau said. "We tried to get companies rotated in and out of the building, so they didn't get too tired, too hot.

Marineau said it is believed the fire started after a person didn't extinguish their cigarette on one of the balconies. At this time no charges have been filed.

"I think it was just an accidental, improper disposal, which is unfortunately the number-one cause of fires," he said.

Resident Brianna Rivera said she never heard her smoke alarm before her kitchen window shattered and she saw the flames approaching.

"Our whole life was in there. We were supposed to get married Friday," Rivera said. "Everything's in there. Wedding dress, rings, everything."

Cox Media Group