On May 5, the Millis Fire Department made the following Facebook post regarding a fire at Deerfield Tree Farm on Birch Street.  

“At approximately 5:45 p.m., Millis Public Safety dispatch received several 911 calls reporting a structure fire at 25 Birch Street. On arrival, crews were met with a well involved structure being fed by high winds and several propane tanks. The fire spread to two additional smaller structures on the property and approximately 3-4 acres of woods. 

“The resident was able to get out with their dog without injury.

“The fire quickly went to three alarms. 

“The fire is under investigation by the Millis Fire & Police depts as well as the State Fire Marshal’s office.

“Thank you to our Mutual aid partners: Norfolk Fire, Medway Fire, Medfield Fire, Sherborn Fire, Westwood Fire, Walpole Fire, Wrentham Fire, Franklin Fire, Bellingham Fire, Dover Fire, Holliston Fire and Charlton Rehab.” 

The next day, friends set up a GoFundMe for the Dowd family and had raised $3,500 of its $18k goal as of press time. 

The GoFundMe page says, “My girlfriends and I are starting this for another friend who lost her home to a devastating fire last night in Millis, MA. Her home was on her tree farm, which generated income for the family. Her home is a total loss. So we are reaching out here to try to get her the necessities she needs for now. Nothing will replace the stuff she lost. But she for sure needs clothes, personal items, hygiene items, food, hotel money, everyday items for her and her dog. She lost everything. Any monetary amount would help. If you can’t do that and would like to help with gift cards for basic stuff, food, groceries, anything would be a big help. You can email me and we can set up a drop-off or pick-up site. Thank you for anything, even your prayers.” 

Contact information is available at https://bit.ly/GoFundMeMillisDowd.