NORTH MANCHESTER — Nearly two dozen departments responded to a large fire at Hi-Grade Egg Producers Monday night.

The fire was initially reported in a poultry barn at 5780 E. 1100 N., just east of North Manchester. It started around 10:30 p.m.

Fire officials said wind caused the flames to spread to at least four other large barns on the property. Four or more of them appeared to be total losses.

Crews from 22 different fire departments around the area finally got the fire under control just before 5 a.m. Tuesday, nearly seven hours after it started.

It was a large effort that Brandon Volk, Chester Township Fire Department Chief, said he is proud of despite the damage.

“We had a lot of people away from their families all night tonight,” Volk said. “A lot of us are going right back to work this morning, so it’s a big thanks to all the volunteers that came out and gave their time here. I thought we fought it the best we could. Unfortunately that’s just how it goes sometimes.”

Several fire units stayed at the scene well into morning to watch for any re-ignition to the fire.

Nobody was hurt during the fire, but an unknown number of chickens died.

The fire is under investigation.

Source: WANE