Four Structure Fires Reported in Canton Area Over 12 Hours

CANTON, Ga. — Firefighters responded to four separate structure fires in the Canton area within a 12 hour period between Thursday evening and Friday morning, according to Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services.

The first fire was reported shortly after 8 p.m. Thursday on Killian Street. Firefighters arrived to find an active fire inside the residence and began an interior attack while conducting a search of the home. Crews extinguished the fire and brought the situation under control.

During the search, firefighters located a family dog named Zeus inside the home. Officials said the dog had died before crews arrived. After the incident, firefighters assisted the family by burying the dog while neighbors gathered to support the family.

Just before 9 p.m., crews responded to a second fire on Meridian Street. Firefighters discovered a fire on the exterior of the home and quickly contained it, preventing the flames from spreading further into the structure. No injuries were reported.

At approximately 4:30 a.m. Friday, firefighters were dispatched to a Waffle House on Marietta Highway after smoke was reported coming from the building. Crews found smoke coming from an HVAC unit and quickly addressed the issue. Authorities said there was no significant damage to the restaurant.

The fourth fire occurred around 8:30 a.m. Friday on Royal Crescent Terrace. Residents were alerted by working smoke alarms after a fire started in their garage. Everyone inside the home was able to escape safely before firefighters arrived. Crews quickly extinguished the fire and prevented it from spreading into the residence.

Officials said all four fires remain under investigation but preliminary findings indicate they appear to be accidental, with no signs of foul play.

Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services reminded residents that working smoke alarms can provide critical early warning during a fire and urged homeowners to ensure alarms are installed on every level of their homes and inside sleeping areas. Officials also encouraged families to practice a home fire escape plan so everyone knows how to exit safely in an emergency.