Cause of Sunday fire unknown, to be investigated by state fire marshal's office

When Rochester firefighters arrived on Sunday they found the residence fully involved. (Rochester Fire)

ROCHESTER - A two-alarm fire on Sunday destroyed a Habitat for Humanity-built duplex that housed two families.
The fire at 168 Four Rod Road was called in a little after 10 a.m., according to Northeast Fire Alerts, and resulted in a total loss.

Rochester Fire Chief Dennis Dube said three fire trucks and a tanker responded to find the structure fully involved.

"The fire had already spread to most of the structure prior to our arrival," Dube told The Rochester Voice.

Dube said two adults and two children were home in Unit A at the time of the fire and were able to evacuate the building safely. Another resident of unit A and all from unit B were not at home.

One cat was was eventually found outside unharmed, but two other pets remain unaccounted for.

Rochester firefighters operated multiple hose lines onto the flames, said Dube, who added that a lack of fire hydrants led him to request additional tankers from neighboring departments.

Rochester Fire was assisted on scene by Frisbie EMS, Rochester Police, Rochester Public Works, Somersworth Fire, Dover Fire, Farmington Fire, Milton Fire, Lebanon Maine Fire, Strafford Fire, Sanford Maine Fire, Durham Fire, Rollinsford Fire, Barrington Fire, Lee Fire and Eversource. Berwick, South Berwick and off duty Rochester Firefighters provided station coverage.

The building was deemed a total loss, and the occupants are being assisted by Habitat for Humanity, and the American Red Cross. Rochester Professional Firefighters Toy Bank is working with the families to provide comfort to the children involved.

The State Fire Marshal's Office is investigating the cause of the fire.

Habitat for Humanity officials were equally devastated.

We are heartbroken for both of these families," a statement read. "They have lost their homes and all the contents within. We are so grateful that no one was hurt in the fire. Grateful too for the fire departments and all who responded."

Meanwhile, a Go-Fund me page has been set up by SENH Habitat to help the families who have been impacted.
To donate click here.
Southeast New Hampshire Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that strengthen families and develop communities by partnering with corporations, like-minded community groups, faith-based organizations and individual volunteers to build and renovate simple, decent, affordable homes with hard-working people who are in need. For more on Southeast New Hampshire Habitat for Humanity, visit senhhabitat.org or call (603) 433-9555.