Midway Fire District

05/06/2026

Today, May 6, 2026, members of the Midway Fire District came together to celebrate the promotion of Firefighter Eric Irigoyen to the rank of Lieutenant.

Lt. Irigoyen successfully completed a rigorous testing process leading up to his promotion, demonstrating the dedication, knowledge, and leadership required to earn the badge of Lieutenant. Having served the district for the past six years, Eric’s promotion marks a significant milestone in his fire service career and reflects his commitment to both the department and the community he serves.

Congratulations to Lt. Irigoyen on this well-earned accomplishment, and best wishes as he begins this next chapter of leadership within the Midway Fire District.

05/05/2026

We’re sharing additional photos from the house fire on Lamb Drive.

While the homeowner suffered a significant loss, there was a moment of relief—Midway Captain Alderfer successfully rescued their 18-year-old cat from inside the home. After being brought out safely, the cat was transported to a local animal hospital in Gulf Breeze for evaluation and treatment for possible smoke inhalation.

We’re thankful for the dedication and hard work of our firefighters, who go above and beyond in moments like these.

05/05/2026

May 4, 2026

At approximately 6:45 p.m., Midway Fire District crews responded to a residential structure fire in the 1200 block of Lamb Drive.

The initial 911 caller reported visible flames and smoke coming from the home. While en route, Battalion Chief Johnson observed a large column of black smoke from a distance, confirming a working fire.

Prior to firefighters’ arrival, neighbors assisted an elderly female resident out of the home safely.

Upon arrival, crews encountered heavy fire conditions inside the home. Firefighters from Engine 35 and Truck 36 deployed multiple hose lines and initiated an aggressive interior fire attack. Crews worked quickly to contain the fire, including pulling ceilings to access and extinguish fire in the attic space.

Firefighters conducted both primary and secondary searches of the residence to ensure no occupants remained inside. During the search, an older cat was located in a bedroom and removed from the structure. The animal was transported to an emergency veterinary facility for oxygen therapy.

Midway Fire District received mutual aid assistance from Holley-Navarre Fire District (Engine 41, Battalion 40) and Escambia County Fire Rescue (Engine 13, Battalion 2). Lifeguard EMS staged on scene, and the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office assisted with traffic control.

The Florida State Fire Marshal’s Office has been requested to determine the cause and origin of the fire.

No injuries were reported.

05/04/2026

05/02/2026

On May 2, 2026, at approximately 0800 hours, Midway Engine 37 and Battalion 35 responded to a motor vehicle crash at the intersection of Highway 98 and Bergren Road.

Upon arrival, crews found a sedan involved in the collision. The driver had contacted 911 advising she was unable to open her door. Fire personnel began preparing to force entry using a hydraulic spreader; however, before tools were deployed, the driver was able to self-extricate through the passenger-side door.

Lifeguard EMS evaluated the occupants of both vehicles on scene.

04/30/2026

The Midway Fire District extends its sincere thanks to the members of St. Paul United Methodist Church for stopping by Station 37 with much-appreciated supplies. Your support means a great deal to our team, and we are truly grateful to serve such a generous community.

04/23/2026

Santa Rosa County Emergency Management


Our area continues to feel the effects of prolonged drought, which increases wildfire risk. We are asking you to continue to use extreme caution for all outdoor burning or potentially hazardous activities.
Santa Rosa County Public Safety continues to work closely with the Florida Forest Service and National Weather Service Mobile Office to monitor conditions and evaluate the need for possible burn bans.
While there is currently no burn ban in place for Santa Rosa County, burning yard debris is not recommended. Residents should also be extremely careful with any campfires or cooking fires as well as be mindful when parking vehicles, ATVs, etc., in tall grass or over leaves. According to the Florida Forest Service, of all wildfires in our area last year, 70% were human-caused and avoidable, with nearly 50% of the causes coming from yard debris or equipment/vehicle use.
The Florida Forest Service has also suspended authorizations for prescribed burning and large pile burning until further notice.
Residents may take the following actions to protect their families and homes from fire danger:
- Create at least 30 feet of defensible – clean and green – space around your home.
- Clear trash and dead vegetation from your front and backyards.
- Remove leaves and debris from roofs and gutters.
- Use extreme caution when grilling.
- Properly dispose of ci******es.
- Call 9-1-1 if you see fire in your area.
Current wildfire information can be viewed online at

04/15/2026

Big thanks to our Santa Rosa County E.C.C. dispatchers for everything you do behind the scenes to keep our community safe.

The Midway Fire District was proud to show a little appreciation by providing lunch in honor of National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.

You’re the calm voice in the chaos, and it never goes unnoticed.

L-R April Miller, Deputy Chief Rick Barberi, Fire Marshal Mike Osban, Chief Shannon Stone, Taylor White and Jon Rhodes.

04/15/2026

On April 15, 2026, at approximately 08:56 hours, Midway Engine 35, Truck 36, District Chief 35, and Battalion 35 responded to a reported motor vehicle crash with possible entrapment on Gulf Breeze Parkway near Grand Ridge Circle.

Santa Rosa County Emergency Communications received multiple 911 calls reporting a sedan lodged beneath a pickup truck. Upon arrival, crews determined that both drivers had already self-extricated.

Fire personnel evaluated both individuals on scene, and both declined medical transport. The Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office assisted with traffic control until the Florida Highway Patrol arrived on scene.

04/09/2026

Busy week at Midway Station 37

We were proud to host our partners from Gulf Breeze Fire and Escambia County Fire Rescue as they put their newest firefighters through hands-on training. From foundational skills to real-world scenarios, these crews spent the week sharpening their abilities, building confidence, and preparing for the calls that matter most.

On Saturday, three Gulf Breeze firefighters worked alongside Engine 37 (C-Shift), training in preparation for their Florida State Firefighter I practical exam. Our crew provided hands-on instruction to help set them up for success.

From Monday through Wednesday, 17 recruit firefighters from Escambia County Fire Rescue participated in live burn training as part of their “Beyond Minimum Standards” class. All 17 recruits recently passed their Florida State certification and are now officially certified firefighters. The six-week “Beyond Minimum Standards” program is designed to bring cadets up to speed on the expectations of serving as an Escambia County firefighter. During their time at our facility, recruits trained in controlled live fire scenarios, each carefully coordinated by certified live fire instructors to ensure both realism and safety.

Strong training builds stronger firefighters—and even stronger partnerships.

04/04/2026

Early this morning around 5am, All your Midway C-Watch firefighters took advantage of a rare opportunity to conduct commercial structure fire training at our local Lowe’s prior to store opening.

Crews stretched hose lines into the building and worked through realistic fireground operations in a large commercial occupancy—something that’s difficult to replicate in a typical training environment. Training like this sharpens coordination, decision-making, and ex*****on when it matters most.

This opportunity was made possible through the strong relationship we’ve built with our local Lowe’s team. Their continued support allows us to train at a higher level and better prepare to protect our community.

We appreciate their partnership and commitment to public safety.

— Midway Fire District