FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 3, 2026
Serious Motor Vehicle Crash with Vehicle Fire on Route 128 South
At approximately 4:45 PM, the Manchester Fire and Police Departments were dispatched by North Shore Regional 911 to a reported two-car motor vehicle crash on Route 128 South between Exits 50 and 49 (School Street and Pine Street). Initial reports indicated that one of the vehicles was on fire and that there were injured occupants.
Based on the severity of information provided by multiple 911 callers, North Shore Regional 911 automatically dispatched mutual aid resources in accordance with regional response protocols. This early activation of mutual aid significantly enhanced the speed and coordination of the emergency response and contributed to the efficient mitigation of the incident.
Manchester Ladder 1 and Ambulance 1 were the first units to arrive on scene. Lieutenant Crosbie established incident command. Ladder 1 personnel immediately initiated fire suppression operations while Ambulance 1 began providing advanced life support care to one of the occupants, who sustained significant injuries and burns. That patient was subsequently transported by Manchester Ambulance 1 to Beverly Hospital in serious condition.
Manchester Engine 1 and Car 2 (Assistant Chief Cavender) arrived moments later. Assistant Chief Cavender assumed command, and Manchester Engine 1 deployed a second attack line to support suppression efforts under the direction of Lieutenant Crosbie. Route 128 South was shut down to ensure scene safety for emergency personnel and motorists.
Essex Fire Department Ambulance 1 and Engine 2 were the first mutual aid resources to arrive.
Essex Engine 2 and Manchester Engine 1 deployed foam operations to assist in extinguishing both the vehicle fire and a gasoline fire resulting from the crash. Essex Ambulance 1 transported the second patient, who sustained minor injuries, to Beverly Hospital for evaluation and treatment.
The fire was brought under control without further extension, and both vehicles were removed from the scene.
Mutual aid assistance was provided by:
- Essex Fire Department (Engine 2 and Ambulance 1)
- Gloucester Fire Department (Car 2 – Assistant Chief Ouellette)
- Hamilton Fire Department (Engine for station coverage)
- Wenham Fire Department (Engine staged at Pine Street for additional personnel and water supply, if needed)
The Manchester Fire Department would like to thank North Shore Regional 911, the Manchester Police Department, and all assisting mutual aid agencies for their coordinated response and professionalism during this incident. Their immediate support ensured a seamless emergency response and contributed significantly to the safe and effective management of a serious highway incident.
This incident reflects the strength of regional mutual aid and the continued value of coordinated emergency response partnerships.
Media Contact:
Manchester Fire Department
Office of the Assistant Fire Chief
12 School Street
Manchester, MA 01944
978-526-4040
