Improper Disposal Of Smoking Materials Cause Of 6-Alarm Charlestown Fire

CHARLESTOWN (CBS) -- Fire officials have ruled that improper disposal of smoking materials was the cause of the massive residential fire in Charlestown two weeks ago.

The 6-alarm fire broke out on Bunker Hill Avenue shortly before 2 p.m. on July 21.

One building was completely destroyed. Embers from the original fire caused another fire in a nearby building, which was quickly extinguished.

"We've had several fires this summer where people use the planters on porches as an ash tray and you know several hours later, we have a fire," said Boston Fire spokesman Steve MacDonald.

The blaze caused millions of dollars in damage.

No residents were hurt. One firefighter was taken to Massachusetts General Hospital to be treated for heat exhaustion.