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A tragic fire in Kingston claimed the life of one resident on Monday (December 23). The three-alarm blaze occurred at an apartment complex on Fair Street. Fire Chief Chris Rea reported that the victim was treated for carbon monoxide poisoning at the scene but could not be saved. The victim's identity has not been released.
The emergency call came in at 10:41 a.m., reporting smoke from a second-floor window at 165 Fair Street. Firefighters arrived at 10:45 a.m. and found smoke escaping from the window and eaves. They forced entry into the residence and discovered an unconscious man in the living room. Despite receiving advanced life support care and being transported to HealthAlliance-Kingston, the man succumbed to his injuries.
The fire department escalated the response to a third alarm by 10:58 a.m., summoning additional personnel and resources. In total, 24 Kingston firefighters and the Ulster Hose Firefighter Assist and Search Team responded. Crews extinguished the fire and conducted a thorough search, with no additional injuries reported. Units remained on-site until 1:53 p.m. to ensure the fire was fully extinguished.
The cause of the fire is under investigation. Fire Chief Rea's early assessment suggests it may have been smoking-related or caused by an electrical cord malfunction. The building was condemned, and emergency aid organizations will offer assistance to affected residents. The last deadly fire in Kingston occurred in November 2022.