DARLINGTON, Fla. – A quick-thinking driver who spotted flames coming from a home along Highway 2 West helped trigger a swift emergency response Thursday afternoon, as firefighters battled a blaze that heavily damaged a residence in Darlington.
At approximately 4:48 p.m. on Feb. 5, 2026, crews with Walton County Fire Rescue and deputies with the Walton County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched after a passing motorist reported the fire.
When Engine 3 arrived, firefighters found a single-story home about 70 percent involved in flames. Crews immediately began suppression efforts, assisted by volunteer firefighters from the Liberty and Argyle fire districts. Firefighters were able to knock down the blaze, but the home sustained extensive damage.
The homeowner escaped before first responders arrived and reported minor burns. He declined medical treatment at the scene. The homeowner told firefighters the fire started while he was attempting to light a wood-burning heater inside the residence.
“We’re thankful the homeowner was able to escape safely,” said Austin Pugh, fire chief of Walton County Fire Rescue. “This incident is a reminder of how quickly fire can spread, especially when heating sources are involved.”
Assistance from the American Red Cross was offered but declined, as the homeowner said he had belongings at a nearby family member’s home.
Fire officials reminded residents not to use heat accelerants when lighting wood-burning heaters or fireplaces and to follow proper fire safety guidelines.
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