Hyannis – An 89-year-old woman was burnt out of her home and transported to Cape Cod Hospital early this morning. Relatives and neighbors are saying the fire was intentionally set as payback for her grandson not engaging in a fight with a gang of young kids whose ages range from 12 to 16 years old.

Barnstable Police and Hyannis Fire fighters responded to 50 Fresh Holes Road at approximately 4:30 this morning for a working fire. Upon arrival, officials quickly learned they were dealing with arson.

According to witnesses, someone dragged an old mattress to the rear of 50 Fresh Holes, leaned it up against the house, and set it on fire. Fire traveled up the outside of the residence and gained intensity inside the attic.

89-year-old Alleyne “Nanna” Edwards, who is said to be confined to a wheelchair, was inside sleeping during the fire. Relatives staying nearby alerted firefighters and rushed to her aid, very likely saving the woman's life.

Another family at number 52 in the same duplex was also displaced due to fire, smoke and structural damage.

The Red Cross was on scene and explained they could provide temporary housing, but for only two days. It is uncertain what will happen after the two days, as the residence will not be liveable again for quite some time.

Prior to the fire: Barnstable Police responded to the area several times last night for large groups of youths reportedly fighting or attempting to fight. The first skirmish happened near the Barnstable Youth Center and it is believed it all started over a stolen bicycle.

Leading up to the fire, tempers flared, rocks were thrown, and threats were made; the daughter-in-law of the elderly victim is adamant the fire was set by a group that showed up and wanted to fight her son last night.

Neighbors expressed frustration, fear, and anger that nothing has been done about a certain out of control gang of local youths.

The scene is under investigation by Detective Therese Gallant and the Barnstable Police Department.

Hyannis News will provide updates as they become available.

8/18/2013

Robert Bastille, HyannisNews.com

P.S. - The following is for the families of Fresh Holes Road, may they soon find peace and justice... [Press play]