Two-alarm Beverly house fire triggered by propane tank explosion displaces four residents, injures one adult

Fire breaks out behind Nelson Avenue home

A two-alarm fire heavily damaged a single-family home in Beverly, Massachusetts, after a backyard propane tank incident escalated into a fast-moving blaze. The fire was reported shortly after midday on Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025, at a residence on Nelson Avenue.

Firefighters were dispatched at about 12:45 p.m. following reports of a burning propane tank. On arrival, crews found smoke and what was described as a heavy fire originating in the backyard area, where the propane tank was involved. The fire extended into the house, prompting a larger response.

Explosion during suppression effort, no firefighter injuries reported

While firefighters were working to control the flames, the propane tank exploded, sending debris outward and moving the tank a substantial distance from its original position. Despite the blast and the hazards associated with pressurized fuel, no firefighter injuries were reported during the response.

Mutual aid units responded from surrounding North Shore communities, supporting Beverly crews during the multi-hour operation. A rehabilitation unit was also deployed to support personnel working in sustained heat and smoke conditions, providing rest, hydration and medical monitoring commonly used at longer-duration incidents.

Interior firefighting and overhaul across multiple levels

Once conditions allowed, firefighters entered the structure to attack fire that had spread beyond the exterior area. Crews worked to extinguish fire on the first and second floors and then continued operations throughout the building to locate and suppress hidden pockets of fire—an effort that often includes opening walls and ceilings to prevent rekindling.

The fire was brought under control at about 3:10 p.m. The home sustained significant damage from heat, smoke and firefighting water, leaving it uninhabitable.

• Alarm level: Two-alarm response
• Reported dispatch time: Approximately 12:45 p.m.
• Fire under control: Approximately 3:10 p.m.
• Impact: Four residents displaced
• Injuries: One adult occupant evaluated for minor injuries

Resident injured; cause under investigation

One male occupant suffered minor injuries when the fire ignited and was evaluated at the scene by paramedics. No additional injuries were reported. Four residents were displaced due to the extent of damage.

The origin and cause remained under investigation after the fire, with early indications pointing to an accidental event involving the propane equipment. Fire officials had not announced a final determination or whether any code or safety issues contributed.

Major incidents involving propane can change rapidly, as heat can weaken tanks and valves, raising the risk of sudden release or explosion even during active firefighting operations.

Officials said the investigation would continue as crews assessed damage patterns and the sequence of events from the initial backyard fire through the explosion and interior spread.