CHESTER—On April 18 at about 11 p.m. the Chester Fire Department responded to a reported fire at 2703 Green Mountain Turnpike in Chester, owned by Meredith Paul of Portsmouth, R.I.
A passerby had called in the fire and, upon arrival, fire personnel found the home to be completely engulfed in flames. They called for assistance in attacking the fire from the exterior, and fire departments from Springfield, Proctorsville, Bellows Falls, Ludlow, Grafton responded to the scene. Additionally, the Rockingham Fire Department assisted with water supply while Londonderry covered the Chester fire station. The home was completely destroyed and collapsed during firefighting efforts. Damages were estimated at approximately $250,000. No one was injured in the fire.
The residence had been vacant for several years. Investigators have listed the cause as undetermined and as suspicious at this time. Anyone with information about the fire is asked to call the Arson Tip Line at 1-800-32-ARSON. (There is up to a $5,000 reward for information resulting in an arrest). Information can also be provided to the Vermont State Police at the Rockingham Barracks at 802-875-2112.
