05/31/2026
*****PRESS RELEASE*****
West Bend Fire Department Responds to Residential Structure Fire
Date/Time: Saturday, May 30, 2026 at 1216 hours
Location: 208 Hargrove Place
Incident: 26-002285
West Bend, Wis. — On Saturday, May 30, 2026, at approximately 12:16 p.m., the West Bend Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at a single-family residence. Initial reports indicated flames were burning on an exterior wall and extending into the basement, with a resident reportedly inside attempting to extinguish the fire.
Based on this information, West Bend Public Safety Dispatchers requested a Full Still assignment through MABAS Card 15-1-1, dispatching all West Bend Fire Department stations and designated automatic aid companies.
At the time of the call, on-duty fire department personnel were participating in a training exercise at Regner Park. Battalion 1, Battalion 12, Engine 3, Tower 1, Engine 2, and Med 3 responded immediately. Upon arrival, Battalion 1 found light smoke coming from the open garage door of the residence, and bystanders were attempting to extinguish the fire on the east exterior wall with a garden hose. West Bend Police officers had already assisted all occupants from the home and confirmed everyone was safely accounted for.
Fire crews initiated an offensive interior attack in the basement, quickly bringing the fire under control and checking for extension into concealed spaces. The fire likely originated in an exterior wall behind the siding and extended into the floor cavity above the finished basement, causing damage to several floor joists. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Additional personnel from the West Bend, Jackson, and Kewaskum Fire Departments assisted with overhaul, ventilation, and air quality monitoring. EMS personnel evaluated two police officers and three residents for smoke inhalation; none required further medical treatment. During this fire incident, WBFD was able to handle two additional medical calls for service.
The West Bend Fire Department thanks the West Bend Police Department, West Bend Public Safety Dispatchers, the Jackson and Kewaskum Fire Departments, and WE Energies crews for their prompt response and assistance during this incident.
Incident Commander
Matthew Benidt
Battalion Chief
West Bend Fire Department
(262) 335-5054
[email protected]
City of West Bend
Kewaskum Fire Department
Jackson Fire Department
Badger Firefighters Association
