CHARLTON — On Monday, Aug. 3, 2026, at approximately 11:35 a.m., the Charlton Communications Center received a 911 call reporting a possible structure fire at 11 Sunset Drive.
According to Charlton Fire Chief Rob Barton, a first-alarm assignment was struck, bringing all on-duty and available off-duty Charlton firefighters to the scene. Car 1, Engine 1, C-9, and Engine 3 responded.
When firefighters arrived on scene, they found smoke showing from a single-story residence.
“After Charlton police officers arrived and confirmed a working structure fire, Car 1 upgraded the incident to a second alarm, bringing mutual aid companies from surrounding communities to assist,” Chief Barton said.
The crew from Engine 1 stretched a hose line into the home, located the fire, and quickly brought it under control. Crews then checked for any extension of the fire and ventilated the home to remove lingering heat and smoke.
During a search of the residence, firefighters found two cats inside the home. Firefighters began providing care and were able to resuscitate one of the cats. The second cat did not survive.
“Charlton Animal Control responded and transported the surviving cat to Tufts for further evaluation and care,” Chief Barton said. Adding, “The Massachusetts State Fire Marshal’s Office was contacted to assist the Charlton Fire Department with the investigation.”
A Charlton police detective also responded to assist with the investigation.
All units cleared the scene at approximately 1:15 p.m.
No civilian or firefighter injuries were reported.
