DEDHAM, Mass. — Mary Gardiner woke up to the glow of massive flames outside her window on Schiller Road in Dedham around 2 a.m. on Sunday.
“It was just a wall of flames and I immediately thought that Bob was trapped inside,” said Gardiner.
She was worried about her neighbor who has lived in this home for decades.
“We’ve lived here together for over 50 years, yeah it was his grandfather’s before he owned it,” said Gardiner.
Luckily Dedham fire officials say the homeowner made it out safely after this fire started on the porch and tore through most of the home.
Gardiner took video of the flames from across the street.
“You could feel the heat and all I could think about was Bob being safe,” said Gardiner.
As dozens of firefighters worked to put the flames out, sparks started flying from nearby wires.
“So they couldn’t use the hydrant that was right there, they had to use the hydrant that was down the street because electrical wires were dangling on the street,” said Gardiner.
The man who lives there told fire crews he smelled the smoke and heard glass breaking.
That’s when he ran out the back and called 911.
Gardiner says the loss of this home is devastating to look at in daylight, but she’s so thankful her neighbor will be okay.
“I didn’t see him, so I was really scared, but then one of the firemen came over and said he’s okay, he’s down the street,” said Gardiner.
Dedham fire officials say the homeowner was evaluated on scene for smoke inhalation, but he’ll be okay and he’s staying with family for now.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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