Several First Responders at Scene of Home Explosion that Levels Residence, Requires Burn Center Flight

Originally published on connect-bridgeport.com

At approximately 10 p.m. on Sept. 7, 2026, the Monongah Fire Department was dispatched to a reported explosion near the 3500 block of Freedom Highway, just south of Monongah. Multiple callers reported a possible house explosion followed by smoke and flames.

Based on the initial information provided by Marion County Dispatch, Deputy Chief J. Slagle requested a full structure-fire assignment. While crews were responding, dispatch advised that the explosion had occurred at a residence on Wine Drive and that the homeowner may have suffered burn injuries.

Upon arrival, the crew of Engine 101 found a heavily collapsed structure, scattered debris, and a large fire involving the rubble. Firefighters immediately began a defensive attack. Firefighters were assisted by Monongah Fire Department's newly implemented Drone program by easily identifying "hot spots" with its onboard thermal camera. The homeowner, who was not initially located at the residence, was found shortly afterward at a neighboring home.

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