Fire on Third Beach Road Reported a 'Total Loss'

A fire that broke out this morning around 3:50 a.m. at 379 Third Beach Rd.,  has resulted in a “total loss,” said Fire Chief Ronald Doire.  The building was a barn that had been converted into two apartments and a storage area. 

Doire said although there were two males in the building when the fire broke out, there were no reported injuries.

“Fortunately, they were very lucky,’ the Chief said.

The fire is currently under investigation, although Doire said it appears to have started with propane that was found in the storage area.  The occupants told the fire department a strange smell woke them up at approximately 3:30 a.m.

“They said they checked the garbage and litter box,” said Doire.  They went back to bed and then heard a large explosion about 15 minutes later.  They found the fire in the storage area next to the apartments, but they were unable to put out the flames. 

Doire said by the time the department arrived on scene, the fire was fully engaged.

Philip Rondina, who owns and lives adjacent to the property is a retired firefighter. Doire said a 1937 fire truck was also destroyed in the fire.

Patch will continue to bring you updates as they are made available.