Massachusetts

House Fire in Billerica, Mass. Claims Life of Elderly Man

Officials say the homeowner, 78-year-old Romolo Capobianco, was known around Billerica as the "Tomato Man"

A house fire in Massachusetts claimed the life of a 78-year-old man who lived there.

Romolo Capobianco was located deceased after rescue personnel entered his home at 29 Andover Road in Billerica around 10:20 p.m. on Monday.

Authorities say firefighters responded to the scene around 7 p.m., where they found flames shooting out of the home's first floor.

Crews spent multiple hours fighting the blaze, and officials say the response was complicated due to extremely cold temperatures.

Billerica fire and police officials say Capobianco was known as the "Tomato Man" around town because he grew and sold tomatoes from his home and at the local farmer's market. He also served on the Billerica Housing Authority.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Contact Us