Fire destroys shed at Mercer County House of Hope; residents safe

CELINA — A fire destroyed a shed at the men’s residence of the Mercer County House of Hope on Sunday, but a quick response from firefighters prevented the flames from spreading to the main house.

According to a statement from the organization, crews from the Celina Fire Department arrived to find the men’s shed fully engulfed in flames.

Officials with House of Hope said firefighters told them that if the response had been just a couple of minutes later, the fire may have spread to the residence itself.

Leaders with the recovery program expressed deep gratitude to firefighters and first responders for their fast action in protecting the home and those living there.

They also thanked the community for the prayers, support and encouragement that have already begun pouring in following the incident.

All residents were reported safe and accounted for, and no injuries were reported. House of Hope leaders said they are thankful the situation did not become worse.