A fast-acting homeowner is being credited with preventing a far more grave outcome after a fire broke out Thursday afternoon in a large barn on Ranch Road.
The blaze erupted around 2:30 p.m. in the 400 block, when a petroleum-powered side-by-side vehicle caught fire inside the barn, according to St. Johns County Fire Rescue.
Before firefighters arrived, the homeowner grabbed a fire extinguisher and managed to remove the burning vehicle from the structure.
In addition, they acted quickly to release multiple horses from the barn, moving them to safety before flames could spread.
Firefighters arrived to find an exterior fire that had extended into the barn.
Thanks to the occupant’s efforts, he prevented a “much more serious outcome,” fire officials said.
Paramedics evaluated the homeowner on scene, but they declined transport.
Crews brought the fire under control shortly after arrival, and a full search confirmed that no one was inside the home or barn. No injuries were reported.
According to St. Johns County Fire Rescue, the cause of the fire was determined to be the side-by-side vehicle.
Officials praised the homeowner’s calm and quick response under pressure, which likely saved both animal lives and property.
