08/04/2026
On Monday, August 3, 2026, at approximately 11:27 p.m., the Homer Fire Department was dispatched to investigate a reported gas leak at a residence on Bay Vista Court. While en route, the Homer Police Department also responded to assist, as officers were nearby.
When HPD officers arrived, they found smoke inside the residence and immediately began evacuating the occupants and their pets. The incident was upgraded to a full structure fire response for a two-story home with a detached two-car garage after smoke and flames were observed on the first floor. Fire personnel were able to quickly extinguish the fire.
Pictured are fire and police personnel caring for the animals that suffered smoke inhalation. Four cockatiels and one cat were rescued from the smoke-filled residence and safely transported to the Homer Veterinary Clinic for further evaluation and care. As of 9:00 a.m. this morning, all the surviving animals are doing well and are expected to make a full recovery.
The Homer Fire Department extends its heartfelt condolences to the homeowners for the loss of their dog and six birds.
No other injuries were reported. The cause of the fire was determined to be a faulty heater unit on the first floor of the home.
The Homer Fire Department would like to thank Homer Police Department Officers Bordner and Gullikson for their assistance, as well as neighboring Kachemak Emergency Services/KES and Western Emergency Services for their mutual aid response.
