Large Brush Fire Breaks Out in Franklin

A significant brush fire in Franklin, Massachusetts, prompted the evacuation of nearby homes early Sunday morning, though no injuries or property damage were reported. The fire, which burned approximately 12 acres, was contained by over 70 firefighters from multiple local departments after it was first reported at 3:19 a.m. Fire Chief James McLaughlin indicated that the cause is under investigation, with the potential that it was intentionally set, as flyers have been distributed to solicit information from the public. Similarly, in Hopkinton, New Hampshire, a separate brush fire of 2 acres escalated to a third alarm but was also contained without injuries. Fire officials from both areas are urging residents to refrain from outdoor burning due to high fire danger conditions. The prevalence of these fires in November has raised concerns among firefighters, who are hoping for rain to mitigate the risk.