Crews battling fire at Hillsboro business; three fatalities reported
(HCP photos by Caitlin Forsha.)
Crews are currently battling a fire at a business at the corner of South High and Muntz Streets in Hillsboro.
The incident occurred around 4 p.m. Tuesday at 502 S. High Street in Hillsboro at Jimbo's Auto Repair.
There was an explosion at the building, and other buildings were jolted within three blocks of the explosion.
According to Paint Creek Joint EMS/Fire District Chief Dave Manning, there were three fatalities.
Paint Creek Joint EMS/Fire, Lynchburg Joint Fire & Ambulance, Highland County North Joint Fire and Ambulance, Clinton-Highland Joint Fire District and Highland County EMA are among the agencies at the scene.
The Ohio Department of Transportation and Hillsboro Police Department also assisted, including with the shutdown of a portion of U.S. 62. According to ODOT, High Street/U.S. 62 will be closed from the intersection with U.S. 50 and intersection with Dunlap Road throughout the overnight hours, Tuesday night into Wednesday morning. Firefighters remained on the scene Wednesday morning.
The Ohio State Fire Marshal's Office is investigating the incident.
