Intense fire damages local home

WOONSOCKET, R.I. (WPRI) - Crews were called in to battle a fast moving fire at a home at 49 Hillside Avenue in Woonsocket Friday afternoon.

"I was at my house, and I heard the fire trucks come by. They flew by my house." said Gail Landry. She lives nearby, and saw the chaotic scene unfold.

Flames quickly engulfed the garage and office of the home which is owned by Paul Jacob and his wife. They arrived home from lunch to find their home on fire, and could only watch as crews worked to save the place they've called home for almost 50 years.

The firefight was so intense that a Woonsocket firefighter was treated on the scene for exhaustion. He was taken to the hospital for observation. He's since been released from the hospital.

The house is significantly damaged.

Jacob owns a video and sound company, and often tapes City Council and other events for the city of Woonsocket. A cart of his expensive equipment was doused in water. He'll now have to figure out what can be salvaged.

"He's a nice man. He does a lot for the city." said Landry about her neighbor.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.