HART FLAT, Calif., On July 24th, 2024, at 10:59 p.m. Kern County firefighters were dispatched to a report of a structure fire with explosions, visible approximately two miles away in the community of Hart Flat. Responding firefighters were challenged as they attempted to gain access to the fire. In the darkness of night, they pursued a glow on the mountain with no address to guide them. Additional, more specific reports aided their search and after forcing their way through several gates on a long, tight and winding driveway, firefighters found themselves on scene. A large, two-story residence stood tall above them, both floors fully involved in flames. The home had incurred catastrophic damage and the roof was collapsing into the structure. Another loud explosion occurred with force, blasting shrapnel over the heads of firefighters. Embers lifted in the smoke and were cast all around like fireflies dancing in the sky. No hazard reduction had been done to the property and the crews chased spot fires around the home as the embers touched down in the tall, dry grass. Firefighters stood their ground, extinguishing numerous grass fires and protecting a travel trailer parked just feet from the inferno. Three dogs were found chained, exposed to the unrelenting heat of the fire. Firefighters cut them loose, saving their lives.

The fast action of crews prevented a dangerous wildfire from erupting in this residential community. Due to the complete collapse of the structure, only a primary search could be accomplished to determine if the house was occupied. A thorough secondary search was not feasible. Recognizing the need for specialized search capabilities, the Kern County Sheriff’s Office Cadaver Dog Search Team was requested to respond. Once the structure fire was under control, fire crews meticulously conducted overhaul throughout the night, ensuring complete extinguishment of any hot spots. The KCSO Search Team accompanied by the KCFD Arson Unit, conducted a thorough search of the building, ultimately determining it to be clear of victims.

No Injuries were reported. The cause of the fire is undetermined.