Vandalia Fire Department face major blaze early Wednesday morning–30 to 35 dogs were killed

The Vandalia Fire Department battled a major blaze early Wednesday that left 30 to 35 dogs dead.

Vandalia Fire Chief Zac Stombaugh says they were called out at 5:54 Wednesday morning to a structure fire in the 200 block of East 1800 Avenue with reports of a barn on fire next to a residence.  Chief Stombaugh says that upon arrival crews found a house and barn fully involved with fire.  He added the house was not occupied.  Chief Stombaugh says the barn was used to house dogs, as the location was being used as a dog kennel.  And, he says it is estimated that 30 to 35 dogs were killed in the barn.  Chief Stombaugh did add there were no human injuries from the blaze.

Chief Stombaugh added that damage estimates were not available at this time.  And, the cause of the incident is currently under investigation with the Illinois State Fire Marshals Office.

Chief Stombaugh says the Vandalia Fire Department had 8 firefighters on the scene for about 4 1/2 hours and was assisted by the Mulberry Grove Fire Department, Fillmore Fire Department, Coffeen Fire Department, the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office, Southwestern Electric and Rural Med EMS.