Columbus Firefighters Battle Three Home Blazes Over 24 Hours

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Columbus firefighters responded to three separate home fires over a 24-hour period from Sunday night into Monday afternoon, including one caused by a lightning strike and another that resulted in the deaths of two cats.

Why it matters

Home fires are a serious public safety concern, and the Columbus Fire Department's quick response and efforts to extinguish the blazes likely prevented further loss of life and property damage. The incidents highlight the importance of fire safety and preparedness, especially during severe weather events.

The details

The first fire occurred at 7:40 p.m. Sunday in the 4400 block of Ashworth Court, where a neighbor reported a garage fire. Firefighters extinguished the blaze within 10 minutes. Around 10:25 p.m. Sunday, firefighters were called to the 1600 block of Canyon Oak Lane after a lightning strike caused a fire in the home's attic, resulting in heavy damage. The third fire broke out around 12:14 p.m. Monday in a mobile home in the 2600 block of Doup Drive, where two cats perished.

• The first fire was reported at 7:40 p.m. on Sunday, March 23, 2026.
• The second fire, caused by a lightning strike, was reported around 10:25 p.m. on Sunday, March 23, 2026.
• The third fire was reported around 12:14 p.m. on Monday, March 24, 2026.

What’s next

The Columbus Fire Department is continuing to investigate the causes of the three fires, and the American Red Cross has been contacted to assist the homeowner affected by the fatal mobile home blaze.