Investigation into Fatal Fire Focuses on Heating System

By Liz Taurasi

Investigators are looking at the heating system of the Beacon Street building where two firefighters died and more than a dozen others were injured in a 9-alarm blaze Wednesday.

Lt. Ed Walsh and Firefighter Michael Kennedy died Wednesday battling the fire that broke out about 2:45 p.m. and quickly spread to 9-alarms. Both were trapped in the basement of the burning building.

The Boston Herald is reporting officials are looking at the furnace as a point of origin and that union officials said they believe the fire was so strong it may have burned through the fire hose carried by Kennedy and Walsh.

Mayday calls from both men made it clear they needed water minutes after entering the building, according to the Herald report.

Fire Department officials told the Herald this is one situation they are looking at as they continue their investigation. They are also looking at the building’s electrical system, as well as if any smokers lived in the building.

Boston Fire officials say they expect to announce funeral arrangements for Kennedy and Walsh some time Friday. They will be separate services on back to back days mid-week next week, according to the Boston Fire Department.

Read the full report from the Boston Herald >>