Strong winds made fighting this barn fire in Ashton on Tuesday difficult for Ottawa Fire. It was reported that there were no injuries and no loss of animals as a result of the fire. Courtesy Photo, Ottawa Fire
ASHTON – A barn was destroyed by fire on a farm near Ashton on Tuesday afternoon (May 26) after flames from a burning tractor spread rapidly across dry grass in windy conditions.
Ottawa Fire Services responded to the Anderson Farm on Franktown Road, near Dwyer Hill Road, shortly before 12:30 p.m. following reports of a tractor fire. According to fire officials, the blaze quickly spread from the tractor to nearby grass before engulfing a large barn.
Heavy winds contributed to the rapid spread of the fire, creating challenging conditions for firefighters.
Ottawa Fire Service report that they had brought the blaze under control by approximately 2 p.m. Due to the rural location and the absence of fire hydrants, crews relied on a water shuttle system to transport water to the scene. Firefighters remained on site well into the afternoon extinguishing hot spots and ensuring the fire did not reignite.
No injuries were reported, and officials confirmed no livestock were lost in the fire.
The barn was destroyed, leaving only charred remains of the structure. Neighbours described the Anderson family as being well known in the local community for producing and selling beef and lamb.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Fire officials have not yet determined what sparked the initial tractor fire. Ashton is approximately 40 km. west southwest of downtown Ottawa.
