On March 2, 2024, at approximately 5:40 pm, the Kern County Fire Department’s Emergency Communications Center began receiving reports of a structure fire in the area of Highway 119 and Golf Course Road. A Reinforced Structure Fire response was initiated with units from Old River, Taft, Fellows, Buttonwillow, and Lebec responding. 

The Company Officer from Engine 53 in Old River reported a smoke column was observed as E53 departed the station. E53 arrived and the crew was faced with a two-story single family residence approximately 50-75% involved with fire. Due to the fire conditions,  limited access, and the lack of a close water supply, the decision was made to prioritize protecting an adjacent detached garage from becoming involved with fire.  A water source at a nearby water company was found and a tanker shuttle was utilized to supply water to the scene.  Further information revealed the structure had been vacant for some time, and crews were able to bring the fire under control after several hours ensuring all hotspots were extinguished.