Police and Fire News

House fire in Truro; "Vigiliance" key to solving P'town arsons; Dennis OUI

Two-alarm house fire in Truro
TRURO - A two-alarm fire gutted a house in Truro Thursday afternoon. The fire broke out at 32 Town Hall Road sometime around 3:20 p.m. The home is owned by well-known artist Nancy Craig. She was out at the time and not injured, but artwork at the house may have been lost. The house is believed to be a total loss. Firefighters from across the Outer Cape responded bringing in water by tanker to help quell the flames while others covered empty stations. Investigators say the fire is not suspicious and may be from a defective appliance. The American Red Cross also provided rehab to firefighters on scene. Photo courtesy of Jeff Stranger. 

Woman injured in escalator fall at mall
HYANNIS - At 2:15 p.m. Thursday Hyannis Fire responded to the Cape Cod Mall at the rear entrance to Macy's after a woman apparently fell on an escalator inside.

It was the second time in as many months this has occurred. Hyannis EMTs treated the woman inside then transported her to CCH with unknown injuries.

Story and photo by Frank Paparo.

Investigators say "vigilance" key to catching Provincetown arsonist
PROVINCETOWN - About 40 people turned out for a public meeting on the 18 arson fires that have hit Provincetown since last fall. State Fire Marshal Stephen Coan and lead Detective Lt. Frank Hart say the break in the case will come from the public. Suggestions of setting up arson watch groups were discussed but few details about the investigation were released. The Massachusetts Arson Hotline can be reached anonymously at (800) 682-9229. Marshal Coan also announced the reward for information leading to an arrest now stands at $10,000.

Man charged with OUI after short chase in Dennis
DENNIS - An Eastham man faces several charges after reportedly failing to stop for Dennis Police. About 1 a.m. Thursday police tried to stop a vehicle that was reported speeding on Route 28. The vehicle instead continued on to a side street off Trotting Park Road. Police arrested the driver, 26-year-old Matthew Johnston of Eastham and charged him with operating under the influence of alcohol, speeding, marked lanes violation, failing to stop for a police officer and resisting arrest. He was due to be arraigned in Orleans District Court Thursday morning.