Bulloch County saw its third home lost to fire in a week on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, when a blaze on Old River Road North destroyed a residence and displaced a local couple. This fire brings the total number of citizens left without homes in Bulloch County due to house fires in the past seven days to 11.
Bulloch County 911 dispatched Bulloch County Fire and Statesboro Fire Departments at 1:01 PM to the house fire located in the 15600 block of Old River Road North. Upon arrival, the first firefighters on the scene reported that the single-story wooden structure was heavily involved in fire.
Fortunately, both residents of the home were able to escape the rapidly spreading fire without injury.
Firefighters mounted an aggressive attack to contain the blaze, but due to the significant advancement of the fire and the combustible nature of the wooden structure, the home was deemed a total loss. Fire crews remained on the scene for over two hours, conducting overhaul operations and extinguishing all remaining hot spots.
Assisting at the scene were Bulloch County Sheriff's Deputies, Bulloch EMA, Bulloch EMS and GSP.
Immediately following the incident, Tyrone Willis with the Statesboro Fire CAFE (Citizens Assistance in Fire Emergencies) and Bulloch VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster) responded to provide immediate support to the displaced couple. They successfully connected the residents with the American Red Cross, Fostering Bulloch Hope Chest, and the Statesboro Food Bank, all of whom will be offering immediate temporary assistance. The couple will also be linked with other local agencies to help secure further aid and resources as they begin the recovery process.
This fire follows two other significant residential fires in Bulloch County within the past week. On Thursday, April 24th, a fire on Black Creek Church Road displaced a family of six, and on Saturday, April 26th, a fire on Mill Creek Road left three residents without a home.
The Bulloch County Fire Department will conduct a routine investigation into the cause and origin of the Old River Road North fire. The recent string of fires highlights the vital role of local emergency services and community support organizations in assisting those affected by such sudden and devastating losses.
Citizens who want to help the family immediately are encouraged to make a contribution to Bulloch Strong. 100% of the contributions made to Bulloch Strong will be directed to assisting the family.
