17° and Patchy moderate snow
Image
Image courtesy of Massachusetts Department of Fire Services. A four-alarm fire in Needham on December 24, 2025 claimed the life of a young Needham woman.
12-26-2025 8:48pm
Preliminary Evidence Points to Accidental Cause of Fatal Needham Christmas Eve Fire
Darlene Cancell
Editor
Preliminary evidence suggests that the cause of a four-alarm fire in Needham that occurred shortly before 5:00 a.m. on Christmas Eve, claiming the life of a young woman, was accidental, according to Needham Fire Chief Thomas Conroy, Needham Police Chief John Schlittler, State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine and Norfolk District Attorney Michael Morrissey in a press release issued on December 26th.
Investigators believe the fire began at the rear of a garage attached to the right side of the three-story, single-family home located at 28 Woodworth Road in Needham. Several potential heat sources were identified in that area that officials say could have contributed to the fire.
“We haven’t determined the cause of this fire yet, but we know that tragedies like this one are most common in the winter months,” said State Fire Marshal Davine. “Please be sure you have working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms on every level of your home and a practiced escape plan in the event of an emergency.”
The Needham Fire Department arrived at the location early Wednesday morning, December 24th, to find heavy smoke and flames coming from the home. According to officials, firefighters attempted entry but were pushed back, and the fire quickly spread, causing catastrophic damage.
While two adult occupants were able to escape, 21-year-old Kayla Renee Corrigan did not survive the fire.
A GoFundMe page has been established by Amy Lund and Christa Corrigan to help the family. Donations will go to help cover funeral and memorial expenses, temporary housing and basic necessities. Within about seven hours of being posted on Friday afternoon, December 26th, the GoFundMe page had raised over $73,500 toward its goal of $100,000.
“Kayla was a beautiful 21 year old girl who was deeply loved by many. Her absence has left a space that can never be filled. We will carry her memory with us always,” reads the GoFundMe page.
About 75 firefighters from Needham and the surrounding region provided a mutual aid response at the scene. It was seven hours before they could bring the fire under control, said fire officials.
Mutual aid was provided by fire departments of Westwood, Dedham, Norwood, Newton, Brookline, Wellesley, Natick, Milton, and Boston. The Boston Sparks Association and Department of Fire Services also provided support to firefighters.
“Our thoughts have been with the family since the early morning hours of December 24 and they remain with the family today,” said Needham Fire Chief Conroy. “I want to recognize the outpouring of compassion from Needham residents who are sending their love and support.”
