Augusta man dies in Riverside Drive house fire

Officials say the blaze started in the basement when ignitable liquids were accidentally ignited near a chimney cleanout door.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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A 66-year-old Augusta resident, Michael Keith, has died from injuries suffered in a Feb. 19 house fire on Riverside Drive. Local fire, police, and state investigators responded to the scene and determined the fire started in the basement when ignitable liquids were accidentally ignited near a chimney cleanout door.

Why it matters

House fires can have devastating consequences, and this tragic incident highlights the importance of fire safety and prevention measures, especially when dealing with flammable materials in the home. The investigation into the cause of the fire will help identify any potential risks or hazards that need to be addressed to improve public safety.

The details

According to officials, the fire started in the basement of the Riverside Drive home when ignitable liquids were accidentally ignited near a chimney cleanout door. Emergency responders arrived on the scene and found the 66-year-old resident, Michael Keith, with serious injuries. Keith was transported to a local hospital but later died from his injuries.

  • The fire occurred on February 19, 2026.
  • Michael Keith, the 66-year-old resident, died from his injuries.

The players

Michael Keith

A 66-year-old Augusta resident who died from injuries suffered in the Riverside Drive house fire.

Augusta Fire Department

The local fire department that responded to the house fire on Riverside Drive.

Augusta Police Department

The local police department that responded to the house fire on Riverside Drive.

Maine State Fire Marshal's Office

The state agency that investigated the cause of the Riverside Drive house fire.

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What’s next

The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing, and officials will likely release more details as the probe continues.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the importance of fire safety and the need for residents to be vigilant when handling flammable materials in the home. The community will likely rally around the family of the victim and work to implement any necessary safety measures to prevent similar accidents in the future.