Butler Township, OH (May 26, 2026) – Three people were seriously hurt in an apartment building fire on Benchwood Rd near Vandalia on Monday morning. The fire broke out around 9:30 a.m. at a six-unit building, where heavy smoke and flames were visible when responders arrived. All three were rushed to local hospitals in critical condition, though their current status was not confirmed.
The three occupants suffered smoke inhalation and burns since four of the six units were affected by smoke, water, or fire damage. As a precaution, power and gas were cut to all six apartments.
The cause of the fire has not been determined. Residents told local news that they had noticed a burning smell coming from the walls for about a week before the fire broke out. Displaced residents are working with the Red Cross to find temporary shelter.
One resident, Dashia Brown, said she and her daughters had just sat down for breakfast when they evacuated. Brown, who had moved into the building only a week earlier, described strong support from neighbors in the aftermath.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and additional findings are expected as the inquiry progresses. We hope for a full recovery for all three people who were hurt.
What to Know About Apartment Fire Injuries and Smoke Inhalation
Smoke inhalation is one of the most serious risks in a residential fire, often more dangerous than the flames themselves. When a fire burns in an enclosed space, it quickly depletes oxygen and releases toxic gases that can damage the airways and lungs within minutes. People who appear unharmed after escaping a fire may still face serious health consequences hours later.
Burns and smoke inhalation together can require extended hospital care, including breathing support or surgery. Apartment fires present particular challenges because smoke can travel rapidly through shared walls, vents, and hallways, affecting units far from where the fire started. Early evacuation and working smoke detectors remain the most reliable ways to reduce harm in multi-unit buildings.
