A Bulloch County home sustained significant damage in a fire on Tuesday, December 10, 2024. Emergency crews responded to the blaze at approximately 12:30 p.m. after Bulloch 911 dispatched both Bulloch and Statesboro Fire Departments to the 1800 block of Ash Branch Church Road.
The fire reportedly began in a wooden storage building on the property and quickly spread to two nearby propane tanks used for a generator. The heat from the storage fire caused the propane tanks to vent, igniting the wooden porch of the adjacent modular home. Flames then engulfed the home, causing extensive heat, smoke, and fire damage. The fire also spread to a wooded area nearby, requiring additional containment efforts.
The home's occupant, an older man, was not home when the fire broke out. Fortunately, he has a travel trailer on the property that was unaffected by the fire and will serve as his temporary living quarters. The American Red Cross has been contacted to provide additional temporary assistance.
Battalion Chief Ben Allen of Bulloch Fire's Shift C praised the swift and coordinated response of firefighters from five stations. Crews deployed three engines, two tankers, and an engine from the Statesboro Fire Department to bring the fire under control.
“I'm proud of the effort our firefighters put into containing the fire under such challenging conditions,” said Chief Allen. He also expressed concern for the homeowner, noting the significant loss of property.
A routine investigation into the cause and origin of the fire will be conducted by Bulloch Fire Investigators.
This fire serves as a reminder of the importance of fire safety precautions, particularly when storing flammable materials near structures. Local residents are encouraged to check their properties for potential fire hazards and to remain vigilant during this dry season.