An early-morning house fire in Ridgetown caused an estimated $500,000 in damage but no injuries, officials say.
Chatham-Kent Fire and Rescue responded at about 3:06 a.m. on Feb. 17, 2026, to multiple 9-1-1 calls reporting a structure fire at 61 Ebenezer St. W. Callers reported visible flames and heavy smoke coming from the front of the residence.
Firefighters from Station 11 in Ridgetown and Station 10 in Orford arrived to find the home fully involved, with fire spreading rapidly throughout the structure. Due to the intensity of the blaze, crews initiated defensive operations and worked to protect neighbouring properties. A precautionary evacuation was completed for an adjacent home.
Chatham-Kent EMS, Chatham-Kent police, Entegrus and Enbridge Gas assisted at the scene. Firefighters remained on scene extinguishing hot spots. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
