Massive Quincy fire prompts road closings

A massive, four-alarm blaze on Newport Avenue in Quincy prompted first responders to close several streets in the area Tuesday morning.

According to tweets from the Quincy Police Department, firefighters responded to the fire by 9:38 a.m.

Video from the scene shows thick, dark smoke and tall flames shooting out of a building across Newport Avenue from the Wollaston MBTA station.

Fire on Newport Ave by Beale St. Avoid area https://t.co/4aVmUoQ4ux

— Quincy, MA Police Dept (@quincymapolice) March 12, 2019

In a Facebook post, Friends of Quincy Firefighters IAFF Local 792, the union that represents the department’s staff, indicated the blaze swelled to a fourth alarm, just before 10 a.m.

Massachusetts State Police were on the scene assisting with traffic, as troopers shut down a nearly mile-long stretch of Newport Avenue, officials said in a tweet. They also warned motorists of heavy delays in the area.

Authorities said they anticipate road closings to remain in place through the evening commute.

Newport Ave from Beale to Brook St is closed due to large 🔥. Please avoid area. pic.twitter.com/Cxcwta1ttX

— Quincy, MA Police Dept (@quincymapolice) March 12, 2019

Stteet closings have expanded. Beale St closed from Wollaston Center to Harvard St. Newport Ave from Furnace Brook northbound. Please avoid the area. pic.twitter.com/yFcmIBLf6g

— Quincy, MA Police Dept (@quincymapolice) March 12, 2019

🚨🚨Commuters🚨🚨
Please be advised that we anticipate this area to remain closed throughout the evening commute. Please make plans to alter your route. We will keep you updated as the day progresses.

Please share pic.twitter.com/UVrV0Go8Lb

— Quincy, MA Police Dept (@quincymapolice) March 12, 2019

https://twitter.com/quincymapolice/status/1105511147321675776