(Stuart) Ten fire departments responded to a large structure fire at Rose Acres Farms on Monday evening.
Stuart Fire Chief Stephen Martinson stated the Stuart and Menlo Fire Departments were called out at 6:20 p.m. to Rose Acres Farms at 1064 Riverside Avenue in Stuart for reports of a large structure fire. Martinson says when they arrived on scene, they found a fully engulfed chicken barn with significant structural collapse to three-quarters of the building.
Martinson says that during the investigation, it was determined that all buildings at that location were unoccupied and did not house any chickens at the time of the fire. He says unified command and water operations were established, and additional mutual aid was requested from fire crews from Dexter, Casey, Greenfield, Panora, Guthrie Center, Adair, Earlham, and Redfield.
Chief Martinson says the continued assistance provided by neighboring departments is key to ensuring efficiency and the best possible outcomes in these emergencies. Martinson stated they appreciate all outside resources for their support.
