BETHEL TOWNSHIP, MI – A fire destroyed a farm Home next to a well-known scrap metal business in Branch County Tuesday.

Area emergency personnel were called just before 12 noon to the Caudill property at 523 West Central Road. Bronson Fire Chief Scott Wilber says flames were coming from the roof of the large two-story farmhouse when fire crews arrived. The Lakeland Fire Department, who was called for mutual aid for one tanker while Bronson crews were enroute, was upgraded to a full-response once Bronson firefighters arrived on the scene.

Wilber says the wind driven flames quickly spread throughout the structure which was occupied by one adult when the fire broke out.

Bystanders were able to get the occupant out of the house prior to fire crews’ arrival. It is believed a dog perished in the fire.

The home occupant was treated at the scene by a Bronson Fire Emergency Medical Technician and taken to ProMedica Coldwater Regional Hospital by Lifecare Ambulance.

The fire caused nearly $285,000 worth of damage. Wilber says over 150,000 gallons of water were used to put out the blaze. Fire crews were on scene for five hours.

The home is next to the Caudill and Sons recycling business which has been operated by three generations of family members since 1970.

The business will be closed until further notice.

The Union City, Sherwood, Burr Oak, and Orland fire departments supplied tankers.