HARPSWELL, Maine — A tragic early-morning fire claimed the life of a 78-year-old Harpswell resident on Tuesday, according to officials with the Maine Department of Public Safety. Authorities have provisionally identified the victim as Hugh MacFarland, whose body was discovered inside the burned home.
Department spokesperson Shannon Moss said the fire broke out at approximately 1501 Harpswell Neck Road. Fire crews were dispatched to the scene in the early hours of Tuesday after reports of heavy smoke and flames coming from the residence. When firefighters arrived, they immediately began fire suppression efforts to bring the blaze under control.
“Firefighters undertook fire suppression efforts and discovered one individual within the residence,” Moss stated in a release. “The individual was extricated from the building and was pronounced dead at the scene.” Despite the rapid response, the fire caused extensive damage to the home, making recovery efforts difficult.
Officials said the State Fire Marshal’s Office and local investigators are working together to determine how the fire started. While the chief medical examiner’s office will confirm the cause and manner of death, preliminary identification points to MacFarland as the victim. It remains unclear whether he was alone in the home at the time of the fire.
Neighbors reported waking up to the sound of sirens and seeing smoke billowing from the residence. Several described the scene as “heartbreaking,” noting that MacFarland had lived in the neighborhood for many years and was well-liked by those who knew him.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation as authorities continue to assess the scene. Officials are reminding residents to check their smoke alarms and ensure that home heating systems are inspected regularly, especially as colder weather approaches. More information will be released once investigators complete their review of the incident.