Man seriously injured by fire in makeshift shelter in southern Maine
Authorities say a fire that started the night of Dec. 8, 2025, destroyed a makeshift shelter at 34 Boatyard Lane in South Berwick, Maine.
The Maine State Fire Marshal's Office says a man suffered serious burns from a fire that started in a makeshift shelter in South Berwick.
The South Berwick Fire Department said firefighters were first called to Cumberland Farms for a medical emergency at about 11:40 p.m. Monday.
Sign up for our NewslettersThe Fire Marshal's Office said the victim, a 78-year-old man, drove about one mile from his campsite at 34 Boatyard Lane to Cumberland Farms, where he called for help.
When first responders arrived at the Boatyard Lane location, they found a small makeshift structure made of lumber and tarps had been completely consumed by fire. The fire was in the woods about 100 yards from the end of the road.
South Berwick campsite fire
The Fire Marshal's Office said the man, who had been staying in the makeshift shelter, suffered second-degree burns. He was initially transported to a local hospital and later transferred to Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, where he was listed in serious but stable condition as of Tuesday afternoon.
South Berwick campsite fire
The South Berwick Fire Department called the State Fire Marshal's Office to help conduct an investigation into the origin and cause of the fire.
Fire Marshal's Office investigators found a small portable propane heater and two spent propane cylinders near the area where the fire started.
Based on the initial findings and available information, investigators believe the fire was accidental and caused by the improper installation and use of the portable propane heater.
The Fire Marshal's Office said the fire remains under investigation.
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