By Todd Prussman
Boston Herald
REVERE, Mass. — A fast-moving house fire has claimed the life of a beloved retired Revere police officer.
Former police officer Richie Serino, 77, was killed in the blaze which broke out after 4 p.m. Tuesday afternoon. Serino was identified as a victim of the blaze this morning.
“Richie Serino was a community staple, who took pride in his home and his family. He comes from a lineage of Reverians with a rich history in public service, and we are grateful for his, and his family’s, contributions to the betterment of our city,” said Mayor Patrick Keefe Jr. in a statement Wednesday morning.
“On behalf of the City of Revere, I extend my sincere condolences to the Serino family and loved ones during this unimaginable time of loss,” he said.
The fire on the rear side of a multi-family building at 661 Washington Street was reported by a passerby at 4:39 p.m., according to state fire officials.
Firefighters gained entry to the building and immediately began a search for victims when they found Serino. He was pulled out of the building and received medical attention at the scene and was then transported to CHA Everett where he was later pronounced dead.
Serino was known for the “legendary” decorations he put up every Christmas season outside his Revere home. But he was remembered Wednesday for his service to the community.
“This is a very sad day for the Revere Fire Department and the City of Revere,” said Acting Fire Chief James E. Cullen. “Mr. Serino was beloved in our community. He served as a US Marine and a Revere Police officer for many years, and his son is a Revere firefighter. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and many loved ones.”
“Richie served as a proud member of the Revere Police Department for 34 years, from 1979 to 2013,” Interim Police Chief Maria A. LaVita said. “He was quick-witted and always smiling. We will miss him immensely.”
The 2-alarm blaze drew in aid from multiple local fire departments and caused significant damage to the building structure. All residents have been displaced.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, but state fire officials said Wednesday a preliminary investigation found no suspicious cause.
Investigators from the Revere Fire Department, the State Fire Marshall’s Office, state police and Suffolk DA are investigating.
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