A frightening scene unfolded late Friday night on Harwood Street in Dorchester when a third-floor porch collapsed during a large gathering, leaving several people injured.
According to Boston Fire officials, the incident happened around 10 p.m. at 39 Harwood Street. When first responders arrived, all of the individuals who had been on the deck were already on the ground. Nine people were taken to local hospitals, with three reported in critical condition.
At approximately 10 this evening a 3rd floor porch collapsed injuring multiple people, at 39 Hardwood st. Dorchester. pic.twitter.com/J6i0LBq9jw
— Boston Fire Dept. (@BostonFire) June 28, 2025
Fire Chief of Operations Rodney Marshall noted that a refrigerator and other heavy items were also on the deck and may have contributed to a secondary collapse. He emphasized the importance of understanding the structural limits of older buildings, especially when it comes to overcrowding and storing heavy objects on upper floors.
“Every building has a weight limit,” Marshall said. “You have to be aware of the age of these buildings and the type of materials you’re placing on them.”
Boston Inspectional Services was called to the scene to investigate. The injured were transported to Boston Medical Center, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Brigham and Women’s Hospital.
No additional updates have been released at this time.
Maureen Dahill is the editor of Caught in Southie and a lifelong resident of South Boston sometimes mistaken for a yuppie. Co-host of Caught Up, storyteller, lover of red wine and binge watching TV series. Mrs. Peter G. Follow her @MaureenCaught.
