St. Johns County, FL (February 19, 2026) – Two people were taken to the hospital with injuries following a house fire Wednesday night in the Fruit Cove area of St. Johns County. Firefighters also rescued a family dog from the burning home.
Units with St. Johns County Fire Rescue responded to the 2200 block of Marlee Rd S on Wednesday, February 18 at approximately 7:30 p.m. Crews arrived to find a residential structure fire and began suppression efforts while conducting a primary search of the home.
Officials said one firefighter and one occupant of the home were transported to a nearby hospital with minor injuries. During the search, firefighters located the family dog inside the residence and safely removed it from the structure. Fire Rescue personnel were seen providing care to the animal at the scene.
The cause of the fire has not been released, and no additional details were immediately available.
Key Details
- Reported: Wednesday, February 18, at 7:30 p.m.
- Location: 2200 block of Marlee Rd S, Fruit Cove
- Incident Type: Residential structure fire
- Injuries: One firefighter and one resident with minor injuries
- Animal Rescue: Family dog safely removed from home
- Investigation: Cause of fire not yet released
What We Know So Far
- Fire Rescue crews responded to a home on Marlee Rd S around 7:30 p.m.
- Firefighters conducted a primary search of the residence.
- Two individuals were transported to the hospital with minor injuries.
- The family dog was located inside and rescued.
- The scene was secured after suppression and search efforts were completed.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The cause or origin of the fire.
- The extent of structural damage to the home.
- Whether additional occupants were present at the time.
Local Context
Residential fires in neighborhoods such as the 2200 block of Marlee Rd S in Fruit Cove often prompt a coordinated response focused first on life safety. In St. Johns County, crews typically prioritize extinguishing flames, searching for occupants, and checking for pets or others who may still be inside. Once the fire is under control, investigators assess structural integrity and begin reviewing potential ignition sources. Temporary road restrictions and emergency vehicles in the area are common while crews complete ventilation, overhaul, and documentation procedures.
What to Do Next
- If you experience a house fire, exit immediately and call 911 from a safe location.
- Follow instructions from fire personnel and avoid re-entering a damaged structure.
- Document visible damage once authorities determine it is safe to do so.
- Arrange for a follow-up medical evaluation if you were exposed to smoke or experienced any injuries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why might early details change after the initial call?
A: Initial reports are often based on first observations, and information may be updated as investigators gather more evidence.
Q: Why do emergency scenes sometimes remain active after the fire is out?
A: Fire crews must check for hidden hot spots, ensure structural safety, and document the scene before fully clearing the area.
Q: What does it mean when an incident is still under investigation?
A: It indicates that officials are reviewing evidence and assessing conditions to determine the cause and contributing factors.
