Bloomington, Indiana, January 19, 2026
A devastating house fire in Bloomington, Indiana, resulted in the tragic fatalities of two individuals and injuries to three others. Emergency services responded to multiple 911 calls early Sunday morning and discovered a vehicle crashed into a garage engulfed in flames. A person of interest has been detained as authorities continue their investigation. The community is urged to ensure proper fire safety measures in the wake of this tragedy.
BLOOMINGTON, INDIANA – House Fire Claims Two Lives; Person of Interest Detained
A tragic house fire in Bloomington, Indiana, early Sunday morning resulted in two fatalities and three injuries. Authorities have detained a person of interest in connection with the incident.
Incident Details
At approximately 2:40 a.m. on Sunday, January 18, 2026, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office received multiple 911 calls reporting a house fire in the 3800 block of East Anderson Road. Upon arrival, deputies discovered a vehicle that had crashed into an attached garage, which was engulfed in flames. One individual managed to escape the residence with severe burns and was transported to IU Health Bloomington Hospital before being transferred to a hospital in Indianapolis for further treatment. Another person at the scene provided initial information to investigators. While searching the property, authorities located a person of interest in a wooded area near the house about an hour later. This individual also sustained burn injuries and was taken to a local hospital before being transferred to Indianapolis. Charges are pending as the investigation continues.
Victims and Investigation
The Monroe County Coroner’s Office is responsible for releasing the identities of the deceased individuals. The investigation remains active and involves the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Investigative Division, the Indiana State Fire Marshal’s Office, the Monroe County Fire Protection District, and the Monroe County Coroner’s Office.
Background Context
This incident marks the second deadly house fire in Bloomington within the past few months. In November 2025, a fire in the 1200 block of Eastholme Avenue resulted in two fatalities. Authorities are urging residents to ensure their homes are equipped with working smoke alarms and to have an emergency evacuation plan in place.
Weather Conditions
On the day of the incident, Bloomington experienced clear skies with a high of 17°F (-8°C) and a low of 10°F (-12°C). These frigid temperatures may have influenced the rapid spread of the fire.
Safety Recommendations
Residents are advised to check their smoke alarms regularly and ensure they are functioning properly. Having a fire escape plan and practicing it with all household members can significantly increase safety during emergencies.
Conclusion
The Bloomington community is mourning the loss of two residents due to this devastating house fire. Authorities are diligently investigating the cause and circumstances surrounding the incident. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and adhere to safety guidelines to prevent such tragedies in the future.
FAQ
What happened in Bloomington, Indiana, on January 18, 2026?
A house fire occurred in the 3800 block of East Anderson Road, resulting in two fatalities and three injuries. A person of interest has been detained in connection with the incident.
Who are the victims of the Bloomington house fire?
The Monroe County Coroner’s Office is responsible for releasing the identities of the deceased individuals. As of now, their names have not been publicly disclosed.
What is the current status of the investigation into the Bloomington house fire?
The investigation remains active and involves multiple agencies, including the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Investigative Division, the Indiana State Fire Marshal’s Office, the Monroe County Fire Protection District, and the Monroe County Coroner’s Office. Charges are pending against the detained person of interest.
What safety measures should Bloomington residents take following the house fire?
Residents are advised to ensure their homes are equipped with working smoke alarms and to have an emergency evacuation plan in place. Regularly checking smoke alarms and practicing escape plans with all household members can significantly increase safety during emergencies.
How did the weather conditions on January 18, 2026, affect the Bloomington house fire?
On the day of the incident, Bloomington experienced clear skies with a high of 17°F (-8°C) and a low of 10°F (-12°C). These frigid temperatures may have influenced the rapid spread of the fire.
Key Features of the Bloomington House Fire Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 3800 block of East Anderson Road, Bloomington, Indiana |
| Date and Time | January 18, 2026, at approximately 2:40 a.m. |
| Casualties | Two fatalities; three injuries |
| Person of Interest | Detained; charges pending |
| Investigation Agencies | Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Investigative Division, Indiana State Fire Marshal’s Office, Monroe County Fire Protection District, Monroe County Coroner’s Office |
| Weather Conditions | Clear skies; high of 17°F (-8°C); low of 10°F (-12°C) |
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