Statesboro Fire Department crews responded swiftly to a porch fire at The Vault apartments on Statesboro Place Circle Wednesday evening, preventing what could have been a much larger disaster.
At approximately 7:44 PM, Bulloch County 911 dispatched Statesboro Fire Department and Bulloch County Fire Department to an exterior fire at Building 400 of the apartment complex, located at 1699 Statesboro Place Circle. Upon arrival, the first engine reported heavy smoke and flames emanating from a rear exterior balcony, with the fire rapidly spreading to the second-floor balcony. They called for additional engines and firefighters to assist.
Firefighters launched a rapid and aggressive attack, successfully knocking down the fire within minutes. Crews remained on scene for over an hour, meticulously extinguishing hot spots and ensuring the fire was completely contained.
Statesboro Fire Battalion Chief Merritt Kearns praised the firefighters' quick response and efficiency, drawing a comparison to a previous incident at Little Lott's Creek, where a porch fire escalated and destroyed a 12-unit section of an apartment building. "The rapid response and aggressive attack prevented a major loss," stated Chief Kearns.
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by Statesboro Fire Investigators. Preliminary investigations indicate that the fire was not caused by grilling or cooking on the deck.
Statesboro Police Department and Bulloch County EMS also responded to the scene to provide assistance. Fortunately, no injuries were reported as a result of the fire.