Two buildings destroyed in Aroostook County fire that displaced residents

VAN BUREN, Maine — Two buildings were destroyed and several others damaged during a large overnight fire on Main Street in Van Buren that forced evacuations and drew assistance from multiple fire departments.

Fire crews were dispatched to a structure fire at 58 Main St. around 11:14 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6. Upon arrival, firefighters found the building’s owner and pets safely outside and light smoke coming from the rear of the structure, the Van Buren Fire Department said in a social media post .

As a precaution, apartment units above 52 Main St. were evacuated, and residents were sheltered at the VB Connect Center, where the Red Cross provided assistance, according to officials.

Firefighters initially launched attacks from the front and rear of the building, but conditions quickly dete