South Berwick man, 78, seriously burned when makeshift shelter explodes in fire

Firefighters found nothing but burning rubble when they arrived at the scene of the fire (South Berwick Fire Dept.. photo)

SOUTH BERWICK, Maine - A 78-year-old South Berwick man was seriously burned when a makeshift shelter using tarps, lumber and propane heat was consumed by fire on Monday.

Fire crews and police responded around 11:40 p.m. to a report of a burn victim from 34 Boatyard Lane who had driven about a mile to a Cumberland Farms, where he called for help with his injuries.

When responders arrived at the Boatyard Lane address they discovered a small makeshift structure constructed of lumber and tarps that had been completely consumed by fire, according by the Maine Dept. of Safety on Tuesday.

The South Berwick Fire Department requested assistance from the Maine State Fire Marshal's Office, who examined the scene and located a small portable propane heater and two spent propane cylinders near the area of origin. Based on the scene examination and available information, the fire is believed to have been accidental, caused by the improper installation and use of the portable propane heater.

The victim, identified as 78-year-old Steven Goodall, had been staying in the shelter, officials say. He suffered second-degree burns and was taken to Massachusetts General Hospital, where he is listed in serious but stable condition.

This incident remains under review by the State Fire Marshal's Office.