Blaze Destroys East Maitland Home Near Historic Gaol

newy.com.au – A house has been left in ruins following a fierce fire in East Maitland on Saturday morning, 22 March 2025, drawing a significant emergency response near the historic Maitland Gaol.

The blaze broke out just after 8:00am on Cumberland Street, with Fire and Rescue NSW crews rushing to the scene after reports that a single-storey brick residence had caught alight. Around a dozen firefighters worked to bring the flames under control, as thick smoke blanketed the surrounding area.

Intense heat and roof damage made it difficult for crews to enter the building, but the fire was contained within about an hour. Authorities believe the house was unoccupied at the time, and fortunately, there are no reports of missing persons.

A hazmat specialist was later deployed after crews found a fibro material suspected to contain asbestos. A binding solution is being applied to ensure the area is made safe.

Cumberland Street remains closed in both directions as investigators work to determine what sparked the blaze. Fire crews are expected to stay on site into the afternoon as the clean-up and safety measures continue.

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