02/08/2026
🚨 Working Structure Fire – Incident Update 🚨
Tonight, the Portland Fire Department was dispatched to a working structure fire in the 6000 block of Boundary Pike at approximately 9:26 PM, arriving on scene at 9:38 PM under dangerously frigid winter conditions.
With temperatures well below freezing and wind chills creating additional hazards, PFD responded with three apparatus and 14 firefighters, operating in conditions that challenged both personnel and equipment. Chief Weitzel arrived first on scene and confirmed the structure had already collapsed. Thankfully, it was also confirmed that no injuries were sustained.
Due to the collapse and ongoing safety concerns, Jay County REMC was requested to respond and secure electrical service to the area. The Salamonia Volunteer Fire Department assisted with tankers and manpower, helping ensure the scene was safely managed despite the extreme cold.
We would also like to thank Jay County EMS for responding and standing by on scene for any potential medical emergencies involving firefighters or civilians. Their presence is critical during extended incidents, especially in extreme weather conditions. Additionally, thank you to the Portland Police Department for assisting with clearing and controlling intersections within the city, allowing emergency apparatus to move safely and efficiently during the response.
Additionally, thank you to the Jay County Sheriff's Office for responding to the scene and assisting with traffic control, helping keep both responders and the public safe. We want to remind citizens of the importance of not responding to emergency scenes or stopping to observe. Stopping or slowing near active incidents significantly delays response times, restricts access for emergency vehicles, and creates serious safety hazards for responders and the public alike. We would also like to recognize and thank Jay County Dispatch. From the initial call to the final unit returning to service, dispatchers serve as the calm voice in the chaos, coordinating resources, relaying critical information, and keeping responders focused and safe, especially during high-stress incidents and extreme weather conditions.
Firefighters remained on scene for about an hour and a half, battling not only the incident itself but the freezing temperatures and icy conditions, before returning to the station at 11:03 PM. All units were back in service at 11:48 PM.
The cause of the fire remains undetermined at this time.
This incident is a strong reminder that emergencies don’t stop for the weather. Our firefighters and mutual aid partners continue to answer the call day or night, rain or snow, heat or extreme cold, to protect our community. 🚒❄️
