Two Hurt After Fire and Explosions at Boylston St Shop in Brookline, MA

Brookline, MA (May 29, 2026) – On Thursday morning, May 28, a fire broke out at a scuba and dive shop on Boylston Street in Brookline. The fire left a shop worker and a firefighter injured. Brookline Fire and emergency units responded to the scene around 10:45 a.m. and found heavy smoke pouring from the building.

The fire started on the first floor of East Coast Divers when one of the shop's compressed air tanks exploded, according to a worker inside at the time. The flames spread through the building, and additional cylinder explosions complicated efforts to bring the fire under control. Responders were seen on the roof working to vent the structure as crews fought the blaze from multiple positions.

The shop employee and the firefighter each suffered minor injuries. Both residents living in the second- and third-floor apartments above the shop were displaced. 

Authorities continue to investigate this incident. 

We hope those hurt make a quick and full recovery.

What Happens After You Are Injured at Work in Brookline, MA?

When a worker is hurt in a fire or explosion on the job, two separate legal paths may be available: a workers' compensation claim and, in some circumstances, a third-party personal injury claim. 

In Massachusetts, workers hurt on the job are generally entitled to workers' compensation benefits regardless of fault. However, if a piece of equipment malfunctioned due to a defect or improper maintenance, a product liability or negligence claim against another party could also be possible. 

People hurt in workplace fires and explosions can face serious physical consequences even when initial injuries appear minor. Smoke inhalation, burns, blast-related trauma, and damage to hearing or vision may not be fully apparent in the hours immediately following the accident. Injuries that seem manageable at first can require extended medical care or result in lasting complications.

For individuals hurt in the workplace, a personal injury attorney can be able to help identify all available sources of recovery. This means, not just workers' compensation, but also any third-party claims that may arise from defective equipment or unsafe conditions. Legal guidance can help clarify what documentation is needed and what compensation may be available for medical expenses, lost income, and other losses.

If you need any clarification after a work accident, we can answer all your questions. At Fiorentino Legal, we are available to review your case and analyze what options may be the most suitable based on Massachusetts law. 

To find out what options may be available after a workplace injury, contact Fiorentino Legal at (617) 990-2568. 

Note: This post is based on information obtained from publicly available secondary sources. While we strive to ensure the accuracy of the information presented, Fiorentino Legal, P.C. has not independently verified all details of the incident reported. If you notice any inaccuracies or missing information, please contact Fiorentino Legal, P.C. so we can promptly review and update the content.

Disclaimer: The content of this post is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as legal or medical advice. Reading this post does not create an attorney-client relationship with Fiorentino Legal, P.C. If you have been injured in an accident, seek appropriate medical care and consult a qualified attorney regarding your legal options. Any images included are for illustrative purposes only and do not depict the actual accident scene or individuals involved.