9-alarm fire at Chelsea warehouse prompts transit delays, school closures

A 9-alarm fire that broke out overnight in an abandoned industrial building in Chelsea caused delays on the MBTA commuter rail and prompted local elementary schools to close Monday morning.

Chelsea Deputy Fire Chief Michael Masucci said the fire in the Forbes Street mill building was largely extinguished by midday Monday.

No serious injuries were reported, he said.

Crews are expected to be working on site through the day on Monday to control any spots that are still smoldering.

Passengers on the Newburyport/Rockport commuter rail line will be diverted to shuttle buses in both directions between Chelsea and Lynn through the end of the day, according to a statement from Keolis, which operates the MBTA's commuter rail.

Chelsea Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Almi Abeyta wrote on the district's website that Sokolowski, Hooks, Kelly and Berkowitz elementary schools would close for the day.

"The fire has led to restricted access to the school campus, and our primary concern is the safety of our students, staff, and families," Abeyta wrote.

Other public schools in Chelsea remained open.

Local fire officials tell WBUR they expect the mill buildings will need to be demolished.

The 1 Forbes St. lot is currently for sale and includes four buildings, in "various states of disrepair," according to a real estate listing for the property. It had previously been approved for a large-scale mixed use development with 590 residential units.