WESTFIELD, Maine – A fatal structure fire in Westfield remains under investigation after emergency crews discovered a deceased man inside the burned residence Thursday evening.
According to the State Fire Marshal’s Office, the Mars Hill Fire Department received a report of the fire at 1197 Houlton Road in Westfield at approximately 3:38 p.m. on Thursday, April 9, 2026. When firefighters arrived, they encountered heavy fire conditions.
Family members at the scene told first responders that a person was likely trapped inside the home.
Investigators with the Fire Marshal’s Office remained at the property alongside the Mars Hill Fire Department throughout the afternoon and into the evening as they conducted an extensive search of the structure. A deceased male was later found inside.
Officials said the victim will be taken to the Office of Chief Medical Examiner in Augusta, where an autopsy will be performed to confirm his identity and determine the cause and manner of death.
The investigation remained active Friday, with investigators expected to stay on scene as they continue working to determine what caused the fire.
Preliminary information from witnesses suggests the fire may have started in the barn area, but authorities said the official cause remains under investigation. Additional information is expected to be released as it becomes available.
