Two homes destroyed and the third damaged in Lowell's fire

A multi-alarm fire ravaged three multi-family homes in Lowell during Thanksgiving.

Two homes on Shaw Street were destroyed by fire, while another was severely damaged.

A firefighter was treated for smoke inhalation, but no other injuries were reported.

The incident was reported for the first time before 6 pm Thursday on Arthur Street.

When first responders arrived, they saw heavy flames coming from one building and strong gusty winds blowing fire into a second structure.

Firefighters also had to fight the elements because the temperature was very low, with strong winds and gusts.

Street residents were evacuated because of the wind, while frozen water outlets hindered efforts to extinguish the fire.

"I did not see anything at all," said Easter Thomas, who lives in a nearby building. "I had my coat in my hand and my boots in hand.In fact, I ran out barefoot."

According to officials, 25 people have been displaced by fire and the Red Cross is helping them.

An investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing.

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