Man, 'significant' number of birds and snakes killed in Methuen house fire, department says

"A man, as well as a "significant" number of birds and snakes, were killed in a house fire in Methuen early Tuesday morning, officials said."

"The Methuen Fire Department responded around 2:20 a.m. to 38 Atkinson St. for a report of smoke in the home, the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services said in a release."

""On behalf of the Methuen Fire Department, I want to express our heartfelt condolences to the family," said Methuen Fire Chief David A. Toto. "They lost a loved one and their home. This is a very sad day for them and the community.""

The Methuen Fire Department responded around 2:20 a.m. to 38 Atkinson St. after reports of smoke. First responders encountered heavy fire and smoke and found clutter blocking entry. Firefighters battled the blaze for four hours and initiated defensive operations to protect neighboring homes. Three residents escaped, but an adult man was found dead inside. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will determine the cause and manner of the man's death. A significant number of birds and snakes also perished. The house sustained catastrophic damage. Methuen fire and police departments and State Police investigators are probing the fire's origin and cause.

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