An East Boston duplex went up in flames on Sunday, displacing at least 15 people.
The fire broke out just after 12:30 p.m. at the multi-family home on Meridian Street.
Residents say two strangers made their way through the building alerting people to the fire.
Fire officials say the flames spread from the third floor up through the roof of the building. Firefighters were ordered off the roof because it was so unstable.
Boston Fire Commissioner Joseph Finn said cold weather made the fire more challenging.
Families returned to the home hours after the blaze to collect whatever was left of their belongings.
The Red Cross is assisting the displaced families find a place to stay.
There were no reported injuries. Officials estimate there was about $500,000 worth of damage done to the home.
@RedCrossMA asked to respond for between 15-20 displaced residents. BFD Victims Assist Unit also on scene.
— Boston Fire Dept. (@BostonFire) December 17, 2017
House fire on Meridian Street in East Boston.@7News pic.twitter.com/8O9iZrni7S
— Kerri Corrado (@KerriCorrado) December 17, 2017
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