Photo Credit: Blackstone Fire Department
BLACKSTONE — On Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at approximately 11:14 a.m., firefighters with the Blackstone Fire Department responded to Hunan Place, a Chinese restaurant located at 3 Main Street, after a Blackstone police officer on patrol observed smoke coming from the building.
According to Blackstone Fire Chief Kevin Roy, when crews arrived on scene, they observed smoke coming from the roof and fire inside the restaurant.
Firefighters quickly contained the fire, preventing it from extending into additional units in the commercial plaza. Chief Roy said several stores, including Hunan Place, closed for cleanup due to smoke damage.
Mutual aid was provided at the scene by the Woonsocket Rhode Island, Millville, Bellingham, Mendon, and North Smithfield Rhode Island fire departments.
A preliminary investigation by the Blackstone Fire Department determined the fire was accidental and originated from cooking at the restaurant.
“A fast-thinking Blackstone police officer on patrol helped to avert tragedy by quickly reporting this fire before it spread,” Chief Roy said. “We may have a few businesses closed temporarily, but that’s far better than several businesses completely destroyed by flames. I’d also like to send a big thank you to our mutual aid partners — Woonsocket, Millville, Bellingham, Mendon and North Smithfield fire departments — who are always there when we need them.”
