Barn destroyed in Wednesday blaze
BAINBRIDGE — Several area fire departments responded to a large fire that destroyed a barn in Bainbridge on Wednesday.
At about 10:25 a.m., the Bainbridge Volunteer Fire Department was toned out for a structure fire at 2485 E. U.S. 36 just east of the downtown. A box alarm was then immediately activated as Bainbridge firefighters arrived five minutes later with an engine and a tanker.
The Roachdale Volunteer Fire Department also responded with an engine and a tanker, while the Bellmore Volunteer Fire Department brought two tankers. Meanwhile, the Russellville, Clinton Township and Floyd Township volunteer fire departments each brought a tanker, while the Greencastle Fire Department responded with its rescue engine.
The Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, Bainbridge Police Department, Putnam County EMS, Red Cross and Putnam County Community Emergency Response Team also assisted at the scene.
Bainbridge Fire Chief Kevin Thorson told the Banner Graphic that the fire was under control by 12:24 p.m. Meanwhile, U.S. 36 was shut down until about 2 p.m. as fire crews were released from the fireground.
Thorson said the operation was a defensive effort from the outside. This was because the north end of the structure was compromised due to wind funneling through the fire.
Bainbridge Fire went back into service at about 2:30 p.m.
A spreader truck and hay were lost in the blaze. Though the barn was located next to Mortonville Fireworks, Thorson said no fireworks were being stored inside. An explosion was reported, but this was likely fuel burning up or tires popping.
Thorson said the fire was caused by spontaneous combustion of wet hay that was being stored inside the barn at the time of the incident.
Though the barn is a total loss, no injuries have been reported. No financial damages have been determined as a result from the fire.