On Monday, Sept. 15, at 6:45 p.m., the Columbia Fire Department (CFD) responded to multiple reports of a commercial structure fire in the 500 block of Kentucky Boulevard at the Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity House.

CFD arrived within three minutes to find a large, three-story fraternity house with no visible smoke or fire from the exterior. Occupants reported that the chimney on the side of the house had been struck by lightning, and that a room on the third floor smelled of gas. The impact from the lightning strike also damaged adjacent buildings as bricks and construction material were blown in multiple directions from the significant force.

Firefighters made entry into the building as occupants were exiting. They facilitated the evacuation and used thermal imaging cameras to check the structure for transferred heat in empty spaces and walls. Oftentimes, heat can transfer into walls and empty spaces without immediate access and create a fire later which would remain undetectable without the technology.

While firefighters confirmed there was visible damage to the chimney, no fire, smoke or gas odor was found. Crews continued to investigate the area and confirmed there were no hazardous conditions after a thorough search of every floor and room to ensure the students' safety.

In total, nine CFD units comprising 22 personnel responded. No injuries were reported. Crews cleared the scene and returned to service at 7:11 p.m.

The Columbia Fire Department reminds the community to report suspected storm damage and evacuate immediately if they believe there is a risk of fire or gas leak.

City of Columbia Vision
Columbia is the best place for everyone to live, work, learn and play.

City of Columbia Mission
To serve the public equitably through democratic, transparent and efficient government.