On Sunday, July 5, 2026, at 9:22 p.m., the Tiverton Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 178 Deer Run Road.
Because the southern portion of Tiverton does not have municipal water service or fire hydrants, tanker trucks are essential for supplying water to fires in that area. Based on information received from the Tiverton Police Department, the Tanker Task Force was activated and a second alarm was requested before fire crews arrived on scene.
Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy fire involving three sides of the attached garage, with flames already extending into the attic of the home. Two vehicles parked in the driveway were also fully involved. All occupants had safely evacuated the residence prior to the arrival of firefighters.
Fire crews initiated a coordinated attack, with interior crews working to stop the fire’s spread through the attic while exterior crews extinguished the garage and vehicle fires. Due to the volume of fire and staffing needs, a third alarm was requested to bring additional personnel to the scene.
The fire was brought under control in approximately one hour. Firefighters remained on scene for several additional hours conducting overhaul operations and extinguishing remaining hot spots.
There were no civilian or firefighter injuries.
The fire was investigated by the Tiverton Fire Marshal’s Office, with assistance from the Rhode Island State Fire Marshal’s Office. Investigators determined the fire was accidental and was caused by the improper disposal of fireworks.
Mutual aid was provided by the Little Compton, Westport, Fall River, Portsmouth, Middletown, Dartmouth District 3, Newport Naval Station, Bristol, Warren, and Swansea Fire Departments. Additional tankers from Berkley, Acushnet, Lakeville, and Raynham were responding but were canceled while en route. The Providence Canteen also responded to provide rehabilitation services for firefighters operating at the scene.
The Tiverton Fire Department extends its sincere appreciation to all of its mutual aid partners for their assistance and support during this incident.
