This morning at 5:39 a.m., the Merrill Fire Department was dispatched for a report of a home on fire at N2070 Lokemoen Rd. that was totally engulfed in flames. Initial response from Merrill Fire Department included Engine 62, Tender 65, and Medic 61. Command from Engine 62 requested WPS to the scene to disconnect gas and electric at the scene. Mutual Aid was originally requested from Corning Fire Department for a water tender.
Upon arrival the Engine 62 assumed command reported heavy fire and smoke from the house. Command was met on the scene by a law enforcement that advised the house was unoccupied, according to a neighbor who reported the building was vacant and not occupied. Merrill fire companies pulled two large diameter hoses and a pre-connected hose line and begun a defensive fire attack. Command established a rural water shuttle operation and req
uested a MABAS Tender Box Alarm, with mutual aid fire companies from Pine River, Tomahawk and Texas Fire Departments. Eventual on scene fire companies enter the building for an interior attack with overhaul operations. The fire was extinguished by on scene firefighters.
Interviews were conducted by the fire department with the property owner. According to Merrill Fire Chief Dave Savone, the cause and origin of the fire is considered undetermined at this time. No injuries to citizens, law enforcement or fire service personnel were reported. The damage is estimated at $175,000.00 to building and contents.
The Merrill Fire Department and the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office were assisted at the scene by Pine River, Corning, Tomahawk, and Town of Texas fire departments. Wisconsin Public Service also responded.
According to Savone, the fire is not thought to be suspicious.