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LAWRENCE, Essex County, Mass., Nov. 4, 2026 — A three-alarm fire tore through a two-unit residential building on Wednesday afternoon, November 4, at 9A and 9B Hobson Street in Lawrence, displacing more than a dozen residents and injuring a firefighter.
Lawrence fire crews found heavy flames on arrival at the Hobson Street address, with fire spreading toward a neighboring building on Ames Street. Multiple mutual aid departments from across Massachusetts were called in to help knock down the blaze and keep it from spreading further.
More than 12 residents were displaced by the fire. One Lawrence firefighter was taken to a hospital with a hand injury. A cat was pulled from the building and reportedly appeared to be in good health.
The Massachusetts State Fire Marshal's Office has been asked to help investigate. The cause of the fire has not been determined and remains under investigation.
We wish those injured a full recovery.
More Accident News from Essex County
This incident happened on B Hobson Street in Lawrence, MA. For other recent accidents near Lawrence, MA, visit our Essex County accident news page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do structure fires sometimes require multiple alarms and mutual aid?
A fire is upgraded to additional alarms when the flames spread faster than the first crews on scene can contain, or when nearby buildings are threatened. Calling in mutual aid departments brings more firefighters, equipment, and water supply to control the fire and protect adjacent structures.
What should residents do if they're displaced by a fire?
Displaced residents should follow instructions from fire officials and local emergency management, who commonly coordinate temporary shelter through organizations like the Red Cross. It's also important to contact landlords or insurance providers as soon as possible to begin assessing damage and next steps.
How can a fire spread from one building to a neighboring one?
Fire can jump between closely spaced buildings through radiant heat, flying embers, or shared walls and roof lines. Firefighters commonly work to cool and protect exposed neighboring structures even while the main fire is still being fought.
