Gorham man seriously burned in accidental fire
84‑Year‑Old Gorham Man Injured in Home Fire, Hospitalized for Extensive Burns
An 84‑year‑old resident of Gorham was rushed to Maine Medical Center after a house fire on Barstow Road left him with serious burns. Firefighters from the town responded at about 3 p.m. on Sunday afternoon and found the man had set paper on a stove to burn.
Investigators from the Maine State Fire Marshal’s Office said the fire started when the man was burning paper on a stove, causing his clothing to ignite. The blaze was quickly contained, but the man sustained extensive burns that required immediate medical attention.
Gorham firefighters transported the victim to the hospital, where he received treatment for the injuries. His condition has not yet been released to the public.
In a statement released Sunday evening, the Maine State Fire Marshal’s Office reminded residents to exercise caution when burning paper or other materials. The agency urged people to keep combustible items and clothing away from open flames and other heat sources to prevent accidental fires.
The incident is being treated as an accidental fire. The state fire marshal’s office is continuing its investigation, but no foul play has been indicated. The man’s family has not released a statement.
The fire occurred at a private residence on Barstow Road. The home’s occupants were not reported injured, and no other incidents were recorded at the scene. The fire was contained with minimal property damage.
Maine Medical Center officials have not provided details about the patient’s prognosis, but the hospital’s burn unit is preparing for the extensive treatment required. The patient remains under medical care and is being monitored closely by specialists.
The incident underscores the risks of using open flames in the home, especially when combustible materials and clothing are nearby. The Maine State Fire Marshal’s Office encourages residents to follow safety guidelines and to consider safer alternatives for burning paper or other waste.
