A home on China Berry Lane in Portal was completely destroyed by a fire that broke out Saturday evening, August 9, 2025, though the residents were able to escape the structure unharmed.
Bulloch County 911 dispatched Bulloch County Fire, Bulloch County EMS and Bulloch Sheriff's Deputies at 8:43 p.m. to a house fire in the 200 block of China Berry Lane. The first arriving engines reported a heavily involved fire, prompting a request for additional engines, tankers, and firefighters to the scene.
Bulloch County firefighters launched an aggressive attack on the blaze, but the home was ultimately declared a total loss. The sole occupant of the home was able to get out safely before firefighters arrived.
Crews remained on the scene for several hours after the fire was contained to overhaul the structure and ensure all hot spots were extinguished.
The C.A.F.E. (Community Assistance for Firefighter Emergencies) team was on site to provide support to the firefighters and the displaced residents. In the aftermath of the fire and assistance from the Red Cross DAT (Disaster Action Team) has been requested.
Bulloch County Fire will conduct a routine cause and origin investigation into the fire in the coming days.
