Signal Mountain retirement home fire likely caused by lightning

HAMILTON COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF) — Hamilton County authorities said the fire at a Signal Mountain retirement home on Monday was likely caused by a lightning strike.

Someone called 911 Monday morning after strong thunderstorms passed through to report a possible lightning strike.

Alexian Village fire. HCOEM

Signal Mountain firefighters then arrived at the Alexian Village just after 9 a.m. They found heavy smoke coming from the dining hall and main kitchen building.

Fire officials evacuated 450 residents of the retirement home in case the fire spread.

They then had the fire under control by around 10:45 a.m. Power was restored to the Alexian Village around 11:30 a.m.

HCOEM said there were no injuries. However, the building damages are unknown at this time.

Fire officials will conduct an investigation to confirm the fire was started by a lightning strike.

During the incident, the American Red Cross was on scene giving water and snacks to residents who had to evacuate their apartments.

At least six separate agencies responded to the scene to assist.

HAMILTON COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF) — Local firefighters were fighting a fire at the Alexian Village Retirement home on Signal Mountain on Monday.

The Hamilton County Office of Emergency Management reported the fire at around 11 a.m.

Alexian Village fire. HCOEM

They said the fire was in the swimming/kitchen building. It is not affecting residents, they added.

This is a developing story. We will provide updates as they become available.