Balkan Township building deemed total loss after structure fire

A structure fire Sunday has destroyed a building in the 5900 block of Highway 73 located in Balkan Township.

First responders, upon checking the area, saw the fully engulfed pole type building. Firefighters were then able to quickly get the fire under control.

The building was considered a total loss. There was also damage to the siding of the residential building right next to it.

The owner indicated that there were no occupants or animals. And authorities say lightning strikes were also observed in the area prior to the fire being reported.

The state fire marshal was contacted and the investigation ongoing.