Residential Structure Fire

Posted on 01/26/2025

Date: 01-26-2025
Case: Residential Structure Fire in the Town of Hartford
Authority: Sgt Brad Rodich #417


On 01-26-2025 at 1:02pm, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office Communication Center received a 911 call from a passerby reporting flames coming out of the roof at a residence on Hwy 175 in the Town of Hartford. The passerby attempted contact at the front door, however received no response. St. Lawrence Fire and Deputies were subsequently dispatched to the scene.

A Wisconsin State Patrol Trooper was close by and arrived first on scene and confirmed visible flames from the garage area and smoke filling the residence. The trooper was also unable to get a response from the residence and ultimately forced entry to try and make contact. Dispatch was able to make phone contact with the owner shortly thereafter and confirmed that they were not home and that the residence was currently unoccupied. St. Lawrence Fire arrived on scene and quickly upgraded the response level to the Working Still level. Fire personnel were able to knock down the fire and contain the fire damage to the large attached garage. The living quarters of the residence remained mostly intact but sustained smoke damage.

The investigation revealed that area of the garage in which the fire is believed to have originated contained a wood burning furnace. The homeowner confirmed that it was in use shortly before the fire was reported, and it is believed that the cause of the fire is related to this wood burning furnace. There are no damage estimates at this time.

The St Lawrence Fire Department was assisted by the Allenton, Hartford, Slinger, Richfield and Kohlsville Fire Departments. The WI State Patrol, Hartford Police Department and Washington County Highway Shop also assisted with traffic.