St. Joseph, MI – January 27, 2025 – On January 26, 2025, at approximately 10:22 PM, the St. Joseph Fire Department (SJFD) was dispatched to a structure fire at 1501 S. State St. Dispatch advised that flames were visible from outside the residence, prompting an immediate multi-agency response.

Arrival and Observations
Upon the arrival of Engine 105 (E-105), PSOs were already on the scene and preparing to engage. The structure, a two-story residence, was fully engulfed in flames, with fire visible at multiple points around the house.

Firefighting Operations
Crews worked to contain the fire, coordinating efforts to suppress the flames and prevent the fire from spreading to nearby properties. Despite aggressive firefighting efforts, the initial structure at 1501 S. State St. was a total loss.

During the incident, heat from the fire caused the neighboring house to the south of the original structure to ignite on its north side. Fire crews addressed this exposure, limiting the damage to water intrusion on the first and second floors and burn damage to the north-side roof. The dollar amount of the loss for the neighboring structure has not yet been determined.

The fire was fully extinguished after a thorough and collaborative effort by all responding personnel.

Acknowledgments
SJDPS extends its deepest gratitude to the Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety, Benton Township Fire Department, St. Joseph Township Fire Department Station #2, and Lincoln Township Fire Department for their outstanding performance and professionalism during this incident. Their teamwork and dedication were instrumental in managing the fire and preventing further damage.

Investigation and Status
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. No one was home at the time of the fire and no injuries were reported.