Barre was toned for smoke coming from a vacant house. Chief Rob Rogowski (5C) arrived and confirmed smoke showing from the eaves and stuck a first alarm assignment. This special called Oakham's tanker to be first due as Barre's tanker (Engine 6) is OOS for repairs.

First arriving crews received reports that there might be people inside. The engine stretched a line and ladder company started a primary search. Ladder 1's search was negative and Engine 4's crew found a room and contents fire in the basement. They knocked down the heavy fire and contained it to one room. Secondary searches were made and FF's rescued 5 or 6 cats from the residence.

The fire was under investigation by the state fire marshal's office as the fire was suspicious in nature and the house should have been recently vacated by its inhabitants.

Rutland, Hubbardston North Brookfield and others responded to the scene and for station coverage.