A residence at 6135 Brandt Road near Galion was destroyed by fire, Crawford County Now reported. The two-story home was declared a total loss after crews arrived to find it fully engulfed.
No human occupants were present when the fire broke out, though four dogs died, according to the report. Chief Pennington took command at the scene.
Mutual aid came from Jefferson Township, Whetstone and Liberty Township, which supplied tanker support for a water shuttle. Crestline crews handled station coverage for other fire and medical calls.
Firefighters used a defensive strategy, employing an aerial ladder for an initial knockdown and multiple 1¾-inch handlines, including a compressed air foam system that officials described as effective. Crews tracked personnel accountability and rotated teams during the operation, and the American Red Cross was summoned to help the displaced family.
When the fire was under control, the house and vehicles on the property were considered a total loss. Investigators have completed an initial survey and collected photographic evidence; the cause has not been determined.