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Two individuals lost their lives in a fire at Medina’s Body Shop, 310 N. Higbee (SR 15), Milford, early this morning. The fire was reported at 7:18 a.m. by Justin Brown, an employee of CTB who had just left work and observed smoke and flames. Numerous other reports were also received by Kosciusko County Central Dispatch from passing motorists. (See related breaking news coverage)

Kosciusko County Coroner Michael Wilson confirmed late morning remains of two individuals were found inside the structure. However, he stated it cannot be determined at this time the gender or identities of the two victims. The deceased have been taken to Northeast Indiana Forensic Center, Fort Wayne, where autopsies will be conducted. Autopsies are scheduled for Friday.

Actual positive identification could take several weeks.

Wilson stated the investigation will continue with interviews of those near the scene. Autopsy results are expected within two to six weeks. There will be a joint investigation between the coroner’s office, Milford Police Department, Kosciusko County’s fire investigation team and the state fire marshal’s office.

Milford Fire Official Brian Haines stated when firefighters arrived at the scene heavy smoke was rolling out of the front of the building and fire was showing through the front doors, on the northwest corner of the building. The building and its contents are considered a total loss.

Haines noted, as did Wilson, the search and rescue was hampered due to unsafe condditions when firefighters arrived. Heavy black smoke consumed the building and surrounding areas and at times visibility was impossible.

Haines stated the roof had already begun to sag and the front walls were bowing when they arrived. Turkey Creek Fire Territory’s ladder truck was utilized to knock down the fire from above. It’s estimated the fire was brought under control after an hour.

The building, owned by Garry Miller, was occupied by Jose Medina. Court records show there is a pending civil suit against Medina by Miller for unpaid rent dating to 2011.

Firefighters from Milford, Plain Township, Turkey Creek Township, Nappanee and New Paris were on scene for over three hours. Traffic was re-routed at US 6 and SR 15 several miles north of the fire and at Emeline Street, several blocks south of the fire scene, providing ample room for fire equipment and fire hoses. Fire hydrants in the immediate area were utilized.

Traffic was re-opened at approximately 12:45 p.m.

Haines noted 20 firefighters were utilized to work the fire changing out with a team of 20 more firefighters on the scene. Approximately 70 firefighters were on the scene, manning trucks and working. There were no injuries to firefighters or problems due to the cold temperatures, however, the area became extremely icy from water usage.

 

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