Billerica – On Monday, January 21, 2019, at approximately 7:00 PM, Billerica Fire and Police received a report of a possible house fire at #29 Andover Road. Upon arrival, a working fire was observed with significant fire breaching the windows of the home’s first floor. Billerica Fire Department spent multiple hours fighting the fire, which was complicated due to the extremely low temperatures. The estimated wind-chill during firefighting efforts was approximately negative sixteen degrees. At approximately 10:20 PM, rescue personnel were able to enter the structure where the homeowner, Romolo Capobianco, 78, was located deceased. The Billerica Fire and Police Departments, including the Massachusetts Fire Marshall’s Office along with State Police are conducting an investigation into the cause of the fire.

The Billerica Police and Fire Departments would like to extend its sincere condolences to the family and friends of Romolo Capobianco. Romolo was affectionately known as the “Tomato Man” from his long history of growing and selling tomatoes at his Andover Road home and our local Farmer’s Market. He also served for many years on the Billerica Housing Authority. He will be missed by all.

Any additional questions should be directed to Deputy Chief Roy Frost, 978-215-9653