RUTLAND, Vt. (Sept. 4, 2025) — A mulch fire spread to the exterior of the Mountain View Center on Haywood Avenue Thursday evening, prompting a first-alarm response and temporary evacuation of residents, officials said.

The call came in at 5:06 p.m. Ladder 7 and Engine 4 arrived within three minutes to find flames on the ground in front of the building and climbing up the exterior to the roof line.

Crews launched a quick attack while establishing a water supply. Firefighters performed extensive overhaul to check the walls and roof but determined the blaze had not entered the building.

Residents were allowed back inside after the fire was extinguished. Damage was limited to a small section of the building’s exterior, along with minor water, smoke and overhaul effects, officials said. No injuries were reported.

Rutland Town Fire was placed on standby. Police, the Division of Fire Safety, city building and zoning officials, and Regional Ambulance assisted at the scene.

Fire officials also noted that a motorist drove over a supply line during the incident, warning the public that crossing a fire hose is illegal and can cut off the water supply firefighters need.