Investigation into fatal condo blaze continues

Identity of deceased not yet released in fire at a Route 1 condominium complex on Monday.

WESTBROOK >> Officials are continuing to investigate an early morning blaze that killed a man living at a Route 1 condominium complex on Monday.

When firefighters arrived at about 7:35 a.m., the blaze that consumed the basement unit on Economy Drive was “fully involved,” according to Westbrook Fire Department Chief Clifford Spencer, who said the home was “totally gutted.”

“We were able to put it out in about five to 10 minutes,” Spencer said.

The layout of the unit, with only two walls facing outside and the rest situated underground — referred to as a “walkout basement” — made it “an ideal situation” to put out a fire, he said.

“Unfortunately, someone passed away,” Spencer added. “We believe it was a man.” Spencer said the victim was so badly burned that investigators, who had difficulty identifying him, have not released a name.

The State Fire Marshal’s office and Westbrook fire marshal were on scene again Wednesday continuing their investigation into the cause.

A person who lived in the basement unit was among 20 residents evacuated during the blaze, according to the American Red Cross.

The American Red Cross, Westbrook Emergency Management and Westbrook Social Services are helping three families — seven adults and a child — who were displaced after the incident, they said.

Boston Post Road, also known as Route 1, was closed in the area for about 30 minutes due to hoses stretched across the road and fire apparatus, fire officials said.

Old Saybrook and Essex Fire departments provided mutual aid at the scene.

COURTESY PHOTO