Manchester, NH January 5, 2026
Manchester Fire, AMR and police responded to a reported fire at 305 / 307 Amherst Street Monday at about 6:50 a.m.

On arrival Engine 11 reported smoke coming from the dormers of the top floor and a working fire assignment was requested.

Crews pulled hose lines while other firefighters worked to search and evacuate the building. The fire was quickly knocked down but due to the fire extending into the walls ands ceiling extensive overhaul had to be performed.

Companies quickly controlled and extinguished the fire, preventing it from spreading beyond the room of origin. The fire was brought under control at 7:17 a.m.

Occupants of the building were brought to the Department of Employment Security on Hanover Street to stay warm and be evaluated by AMR personnel.

The building had nine units and housed about 18 people, and several people also had pets that evacuated with them.

At this time the Red Cross is working with the families and providing services at their Reservoir Ave facility. Some units may be able to be reoccupied after utilities are turned back on, and some repairs are made to the structure.

The building sustained smoke and water damage, with heavy damage to the third floor apartment.

The fire is not considered suspicious, started on the third floor and is possibly electrical as the source and origin.

The Manchester Fire Marshal’s Office is handling the investigation.

©Jeffrey Hastings www.frameofmindphoto.com/news