CAMBRIDGE (WHDH) — Investigators are still trying to determine the cause of a large fire that ripped through a densely-populated neighborhood in Cambridge on Saturday.
Fire crews remain on the scene of where the massive blaze jumped from one building to another, destroying at least 11 buildings, many of which were homes. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
In a statement, officials say there’s no evidence the fire was intentionally set and are confident they can rule out arson. Investigators have identified an “area of origin” on or near 25 Berkshire St.
Neighbors in Cambridge recorded the moments of panic and fear on surrounding streets as a massive fire affected several buildings in Cambridge, and witnesses said smoke could be seen from miles away. Officials said it was a miracle that no one was seriously injured.
Dozens of families have been displaced and are without a home just weeks before Christmas.
Alpert said the Red Cross is working with affected families to assess their immediate needs while local officials are determining their longer-term needs. Mayor Simmons urged people to contribute online to the Mayor’s Fire Relief Fund she created to help the families.
Reports said more than 4,000 people have donated to the fund, raising more than $260,000 so far for the families trying to rebuild their lives.
On Monday, Cambridge will host a “Fire Recovery Resource Center” at City Hall on Massachusetts Avenue to help those affected by the fire. The meeting aims to bring residents together with city representatives, emergency management officials, as well as workers in insurance, housing development, mental health and more.
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