Deadly Fire In Old Town Caused By Improper Disposal Of Smoking Material

Authorities say a deadly fire that broke out at a home in Old Town early Sunday morning, was not set intentionally, but rather an accident.

According to Maine State Department of Public Safety spokesperson, Shannon Moss, the fire started just after 5 AM, Sunday, in a multi-unit apartment building on Stillwater Avenue in Old Town.

"One resident in the building was able to get out safely. A resident in another apartment was rescued by firefighters. He was transported to the hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries. The deceased has been identified as 71-year-old Banton Foster."

Moss says multiple fire departments responded to the scene of the fire, in an attempt to put it out.

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"Responding to the scene was the Old Town Police Department, Orono Police Department, Old Town Fire and Rescue, Milford Fire and Rescue, Veazie Fire Department, Bradley Fire Department, Milford Rescue, and Orono Rescue."

There were working smoke detectors in the building, says Moss. The State Fire Marsha's Office was called in to investigate.

They completed that investigation today and believe they have figured out what caused the blaze, Moss says.

"The Fire Marshal’s Office has determined the fatal fire in Old Town on Sunday was an accidental fire caused by improper disposal of smoking material."

Parts of Stillwater Avenue had to be shut down Sunday, while fire crews worked to put out the fire.

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