A large house fire on Matthiasville Road in Bracebridge, visible by a plume of smoke for miles, required the response of about 30 firefighters. Six fire trucks from Bracebridge Fire Department Stations 1 and 2 were deployed Tuesday evening, with additional support from four firefighters who remained on site Wednesday morning.

Officials reported that one person managed to escape the home with their animals after discovering the fire and calling 911. Fire Chief Kevin Plested confirmed that the home, along with at least two nearby structures, was completely destroyed. The extent of the homeowner’s insurance coverage is unclear.

The Ontario Fire Marshal’s Office has been notified, and the damage is estimated at approximately $1 million. While the cause of the fire is still under investigation, Plested stated that there are no signs of foul play.