A view of the fire from SR 13 within 15 minutes of the fire being reported. (Photos by Deb Patterson)

SYRACUSE — Turkey Creek Fire Territory, requesting a full assist from North Webster, Milford and Benton fire departments, are still battling a fire at 11639 N. SR 13, on the property of Lakeland Animal Clinic. The building is located north and west of Dr. Richard Brungardt’s home and the animal clinic.

Initial reports indicated the barn was also an apartment, with human and animal occupants. It is believed all human occupants were able to exit the building. The black smoke could be seen as far away, to the west, beyond Milford.

Motorists traveling along SR 13 in the area of the fire are encouraged to find an alternate route as fire trucks are traveling from the scene into Syracuse to resupply water.

Neighboring fire departments have been put on standby for those departments responding.

The fire was brought under control at 6:08 p.m.

According to the Kosciusko County property report, the building is a 4,950 square foot structure with a leanto, appearing to be a metal structure.