NORTH ATTLEBOROUGH, Mass.- A 7-alarm fire at a North Attleborough apartment complex displaced as many as 80 residents Monday afternoon after flames spread rapidly through a three-story building, caused a partial roof collapse, and triggered a large-scale evacuation.
No injuries were reported, according to the North Attleborough Fire Department, and all residents were safely evacuated from the 34-unit building at 30 Juniper Road. Several pets were reunited with their owners, while others remain unaccounted for. The American Red Cross opened an emergency shelter at North Attleborough Middle School, with additional support provided by the Salvation Army and Mansfield Emergency Management Agency.
The fire was reported around 2:05 p.m. on May 11, 2026, initially involving an air conditioning unit, according to Fire Chief Christopher Coleman. It escalated quickly, and a roof collapse around 2:30 p.m. forced full evacuation. The incident was ultimately raised to seven alarms as conditions intensified.
The fire was brought under control at approximately 4:05 p.m. Officials said the building sustained significant damage and is being evaluated by a structural engineer.
A nearby apartment complex was briefly displaced due to shared electrical infrastructure but has since had power restored.
Multiple departments from Massachusetts and Rhode Island assisted in the response.
“This fire was one of the largest incidents I have seen in my 30-year career,” Chief Coleman said. “Despite these obstacles, crews worked aggressively and in close coordination to knock down the fire and prevent its spread to neighboring complexes. I am deeply grateful to all of our mutual aid partners for their critical assistance.”
The cause remains under investigation.
Town officials said residents affected by the fire at 30 Juniper Road are encouraged to attend a coordination meeting scheduled for 9:30 a.m. Tuesday at Amvet Boulevard School, 70 Amvet Boulevard.
Representatives from the town administration, Fire Department, American Red Cross, Lenore’s Pantry, the animal shelter, and other community partners are expected to provide information and assistance to impacted residents and families.
Officials said those in need of immediate support are strongly encouraged to attend.
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