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Wells officials describe rescue, sheltering after 4‑alarm High Pine fire; town launches We Are Wells fundraising
Summary
Town officials said a 4‑alarm fire at the High Pine apartment complex affected 18 units Nov. 18; there were no injuries. The Select Board highlighted mutual‑aid response, emergency sheltering, and urged donations to the We Are Wells Fund; the town manager pledged a $1,000 donation.
Wells officials described a large multi‑agency response after a 4‑alarm fire at the High Pine apartment complex on the night of Nov. 18 that damaged the back of the building and affected 18 units.
The Select Board’s opening statement said all residents escaped without injury and that about 19 outside agencies provided mutual aid to help contain the blaze. The Shores Church offered immediate shelter and local hotels were arranged for displaced residents. Town staff and community groups helped coordinate lodging and support for affected families and children.
Town Manager Mike Pardue told the board that the Red Cross recommended cash or check donations as the most useful form of aid for residents who are currently living in motel rooms and do not have a place to store donated goods. Rebecca, a town staff member, said the We Are Wells Fund is active and an online donation link went live the evening of the meeting.
As a demonstration of support, the chair announced a $1,000 personal check to be deposited into the We Are Wells Fund. Board members and residents praised first responders, the dispatch center, mutual‑aid partners and volunteers for the coordinated effort. Fire Chief Mark Dupuy later publicly thanked mutual‑aid partners and the dispatch team for their roles and described use of a drone and canteen support during operations.
Board members said the town will continue to coordinate assistance for affected families and urged residents who want to help to give to the We Are Wells Fund or the American Red Cross as directed by emergency services.
No vote or formal policy change was taken on the incident itself; board members used the meeting to provide situational updates and to direct staff on outreach and donation logistics.
