Overview
- Flames were first spotted around 2 a.m. by a Department of Public Works crew working on snow removal, prompting an immediate shutdown to vehicles and pedestrians.
- Firefighters spent about four hours extinguishing a deep-seated blaze fueled by trash and wood pallets near a homeless encampment, according to officials.
- Intense heat cracked sections of concrete, and state and local inspectors are evaluating whether the bridge suffered structural damage.
- Police warned of significant delays and urged drivers to use alternate routes as the Amesbury Street crossing into downtown remains closed.
- No injuries were reported, and MassDOT has not provided a repair timetable as the cause of the fire remains under investigation.