Homeowner Discovery Leads to Haz-Mat Investigation in Winchendon MA
Winchendon Fire Department – Haz-Mat Investigation – Press Release 7-22-26
WINCHENDON, MA — At approximately 9:00 a.m. on July 21, the Winchendon Fire Department responded to 25 Northern Heights Drive at the request of the homeowner to investigate a propane cylinder that had been discovered while cleaning the property. The homeowners advised firefighters they had recently purchased the residence and located the cylinder on the property. During the initial assessment, firefighters observed damage to the valve area of the cylinder and consulted with Eastern Propane regarding its safe disposal. Eastern Propane accepted custody of the cylinder for safe evaluation and disposal at the request of the Winchendon Fire Department.
At approximately 10:51 a.m., the Winchendon Fire Department was contacted by Eastern Propane after technicians discovered the cylinder did not contain propane. Captain Marty Scott responded to Eastern Propane to speak with their technician. Upon hearing their concerns, Captain Marty Scott immediately requested the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services Hazardous Materials Team to activate a Tier 1 response to investigate the unknown contents. Initial field testing by the Hazmat Team indicated the possible presence of a hazardous substance, prompting the incident to be escalated to a Tier 2 response bringing additional specialized resources to the scene at 600 School Street.
As the investigation progressed, information obtained during the response led investigators to respond back to 25 Northern Heights to inspect other items discovered during the property’s cleanup. The coordinated response ultimately involved the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services Hazardous Materials Team, Winchendon Police Department, Massachusetts State Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Homeland Security and the National Guard CST Team.
Following extensive laboratory analysis and investigation, officials determined the contents of the cylinder were not sulfur mustard gas or any other chemical warfare agent. All locations were determined to be safe, and the incident concluded without injuries to residents or emergency responders at 20:29.
“This incident demonstrates the importance of treating any unknown substance with extreme caution,” said Fire Chief Thomas Smith. “Our firefighters, together with our local, state, and federal partners, followed established hazardous materials protocols from the outset. While the investigation required significant resources, every action was taken to protect the public until the material could be positively identified.”
The Winchendon Fire Department reminds residents that if they discover unknown containers, chemicals, or suspicious materials on their property, they should not attempt to move or dispose of them. Instead, contact the fire department so trained personnel can safely evaluate the situation.
Winchendon Fire Department would like to extend a special thank you to Eastern Propane for all of their assistance and generosity during the event