HARLEM TOWNSHIP, Delaware County, Ohio, Oct. 29, 2026 — One person was hurt in a house fire on Tuesday afternoon, October 27, in Harlem Township. The occupant reported the home exploded while they were in the shower, according to the Harlem Township Division of Fire.
Crews were dispatched to the 15000 block of Evans Road around 12:15 p.m. after a 911 call. The fire division said the occupant managed to get out and reach a neighbor's house to call for help. When firefighters arrived, the home was fully engulfed in flames.
Firefighters launched a coordinated attack on the blaze and safely removed several dogs from the house, the fire division reported. The occupant was taken to a hospital by Delaware County EMS with burn injuries. The extent of those injuries has not been released.
The State Fire Marshal's office is investigating the cause of the fire. The Harlem Township Division of Fire said several neighboring departments, including Monroe Township, Westerville, BSTG Fire District, and others, assisted at the scene.
We wish those injured a full recovery.
More on Accidents in Harlem Township, OH
This incident happened on Evans Road in Harlem Township, OH. We cover accidents across Delaware County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Delaware County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should someone do if they suspect a gas leak or explosion in their home?
Get everyone and any pets out immediately, avoid using light switches or anything that could spark, and call 911 from outside the home. Do not go back inside until fire officials say it's safe.
What causes house fires to spread so quickly?
Older construction materials, open floor plans, and flammable furnishings can let flames move through a structure fast. Investigators often need time afterward to determine what started the blaze and why it spread the way it did.
Who investigates the cause of a house fire in Ohio?
Local fire departments typically respond first and secure the scene, but the Ohio State Fire Marshal's office often leads or assists in determining the official cause, especially in fires involving significant damage or injury.
What to Do After a House Fire in Harlem Township, Ohio
If you or someone you know has survived a house fire, the first priority is medical care, even for injuries that seem minor at first, since smoke inhalation and burns can worsen over time. Keep records of hospital visits and any instructions from treating physicians. Contact your home insurance provider as soon as possible to begin documenting damage, and avoid entering a fire-damaged structure until officials or inspectors confirm it's safe. If pets or family members were displaced, local agencies and shelters can often help with temporary housing or supplies while you sort out next steps.
