The State Department of Fire Services released a statement informing the community of the passing of an 80-year-old Newton man who had been rescued by Newton firefighters from a two-alarm house fire at 16 Lincoln Road in Nonantum on January 24.
Newton Fire Chief Gregory Gentile said at a press conference that although the fire is still under investigation, they believe the cause “may have been heating related,” had begun in the basement, and does not appear to be suspicious. Fire officials urge people to exercise caution when using a space heater. The fire is being investigated by the Newton Fire and Police Departments, as well as State Police assigned to the office of the State Fire Marshal and the Middlesex District Attorney.
UPDATE: The 80-year-old Newton man was Paul DeRubeis, a lifelong Newton resident. His disabled daughter was also severely injured and remains in the hospital in critical condition. The St. Mary of Carmen Society has established a fund to which the community can donate online or send checks to: DeRubeis Family Fund, c/o The Village Bank, 411 Watertown Street, Newton, MA 02458.
Martina Jackson contributed to this update.
