Fire destroys pole barn

Fire destroys pole barn.

By Allison Scarbrough, Editor.

LEAVITT TOWNSHIP — Firefighters from four departments battled a pole barn fire Friday morning, Jan. 29, around 6:30 a.m. at 4503 N. 176th Avenue, according to Walkerville Fire Chief Al Purdy.

Walkerville, Hart, Crystal Township and Ferry Township fire departments responded to the blaze near Van Buren and Harrison roads.

“It was fully engulfed when I got there,” said Purdy.

The 60-by-40 foot structure with a full lean-to was totally destroyed, along with its contents. The barn stored two tractors, two motorcycles, an ATV and several tools, said Purdy. The pole barn, which is owned by Tim Sibley, is insured, the chief said.

“It’s a total loss,” he said.

Fortunately, firefighters saved the house located about 100 feet away. Although, there may be a little heat damage to the house’s siding, Purdy said.

Firefighters battled the blaze in frigid conditions with a morning temperature of 14 degrees.

The owner told Purdy he had been working in the barn the previous night and was using an electric heater. It’s possible the heater may have been left on, he said.

No one was injured. 

Fire crews were on scene for approximately three and a half hours.

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