Hobart, Indiana – A large structure fire erupted just before 8 p.m. Tuesday, engulfing a pole barn-style garage and triggering a multi-agency emergency response in northwest Indiana.
According to the Hobart Fire Department, crews were dispatched to the 2000 block of West 37th Avenue and arrived within minutes to find the building fully involved in flames. The structure contained multiple hazards, including propane tanks, utility vehicles, forklifts, and welding equipment, increasing the intensity and risk of the fire.
Firefighters faced additional challenges accessing the property due to a locked gate, forcing crews to make entry before launching a defensive attack. As conditions worsened, the incident was upgraded, bringing in mutual aid from departments including Gary, Portage, Merrillville, and Lake Station.
Crews remained on scene for an extended period, working to contain the fire and conduct overhaul operations to prevent flare-ups. Investigators with the Lake County fire task force are now working to determine the cause.
No injuries were reported among civilians or firefighters.
