ACFD Battles Early Morning Garage Fire

 On the morning of December 3, 2025, a structure fire broke out in a detached garage in the 5000 block of 286th Road. The Arkansas City Fire/EMS Department was dispatched at 8:30 a.m. 

Fire Marshal Gary Bowker determined that the fire was caused by an electrical malfunction in an outlet located on the southeast corner of the garage. 

Bowker estimated the total damage at approximately $65,000. The garage structure, its contents, and two vehicles inside all sustained damage. Most of the loss was due to smoke and heat, though there was some direct fire damage in the southeast corner of the building. 

No injuries were reported. 

Fire crews arrived quickly and contained the fire within about five minutes, preventing the blaze from spreading. They remained on scene for roughly 90 minutes to check for fire extension and ensure the area was fully secured. No mutual aid was required.