The Brattleboro Fire Department reported a destructive fire at a residential home located at 346 Akley Road on the evening of January 7. Emergency responders received the alarm shortly before 7 p.m., arriving to find the building engulfed in flames, which prompted the initiation of a second alarm due to the intensity of the situation.

No individuals were inside the structure when the fire broke out, and fortunately, there were no reported injuries. There had been concerns about a family cat that was initially thought to be trapped inside, but it was later found safe outside. Investigations into the fire’s origin suggest that it likely started in the chimney connected to a wood stove.

The scale of damage was significant, with estimates indicating that the house has been declared a total loss, costing between $300,000 and $400,000. Firefighters were able to bring the fire under control by approximately 8:56 p.m. They continued to monitor the scene for several hours after the flames were extinguished, finally clearing the area around 11:23 p.m.

Given that the location lacked fire hydrants, responding units utilized a nearby stream to source water, enabling them to mitigate any potential disruptions to the local water supply. Crews from several regional fire departments, including those from Keene, Hinsdale, Chesterfield, Dummerston, and others, joined the Brattleboro Fire Department in managing the incident.

Authorities continue to assess the aftermath of this fire as recovery processes begin.