Kevin Struble, 57, is believed to be the victim of the Wednesday afternoon fire.

Two men on their way to work wake the sleeping family and help them escape, but one homeowner is assisted again after he goes back into the home for the family cats.

Neighbors say the victim had struggled in recent years with serious medical problems and the deaths of his wife and mother.

In a rude awakening, the region gets its first real taste of snow – half a foot of it – snarling commutes and mobilizing armies to clear it out.

The snowfall is expected for most of Maine, with the Portland area getting 6 or more inches.