On February 23rd, at approximately 2:14 p.m., the Athens-Clarke County Fire Department responded to a reported residential building fire on Rhodes Drive.

First responders saw considerable fire coming from the rear of a two-story single-family home. Firefighters began an interior attack, but as conditions worsened, they were forced to switch to defensive operations to ensure their safety.

Strong northwest gusts aided rapid fire spread, setting several exposure fires on adjoining properties and across the street. Firefighters confined and doused the fires while protecting the nearby residences. Following several hours of synchronized efforts, the main fire was brought under control. A small excavator was then utilized to help firefighters overhaul and extinguish any residual hot areas. Two residents were displaced and sent to Piedmont Athens Regional Medical Center for mild burns. There were no firefighter injuries reported. The cause is still being investigated by the Fire Marshal's Office.