MONROE COUNTY — A horrific early morning house fire has claimed the lives of two residents and left others severely injured. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating the incident as a potential arson, with a suspect apprehended following a manhunt in a nearby wooded area.
The tragedy began at approximately 2:39 a.m. on Sunday, January 18, 2026, when dispatchers received multiple 911 calls reporting a blaze in the 3800 block of East Anderson Road. Callers warned that occupants were likely trapped inside the burning structure.
When deputies and fire crews arrived, they discovered a chaotic scene: a vehicle had crashed into the attached garage of the home, which was fully engulfed in flames.
Emergency responders encountered a harrowing situation as they worked to account for the four occupants of the home.
Two occupants of the residence were unable to survive their injuries. Their identities are being withheld pending notification of next of kin by the Monroe County Coroner’s Office.
One individual escaped the home with severe burns. A second survivor provided initial statements to deputies on the scene. Both were rushed to IU Health Bloomington and later airlifted to an Indianapolis burn center for specialized care.
While firefighters battled the blaze, a massive search was launched for the individual believed to be responsible for the fire. With assistance from the Bloomington Police Department and the Indiana State Police, authorities located a person of interest approximately one hour later.
The suspect was found hiding in a wooded area on the property. According to the Sheriff’s Office, this individual also suffered burn injuries and was transported to an Indianapolis hospital under police custody. Criminal charges are currently pending.
The investigation is described as “very active” and involves a multi-agency effort, including the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Investigative Division, Indiana State Fire Marshal’s Office, Monroe County Fire Protection District, Monroe County Coroner’s Office.
“Our thoughts are with the survivors and the families affected by this tragic event,” Sheriff Ruben Marté stated. He expressed gratitude to the IU Health Lifeline Ambulance and assisting law enforcement agencies for their rapid response under extreme conditions.
Those facing criminal charges are considered innocent until proven guilty through a fair and due legal process. Accusations alone do not imply guilt; the judicial system will evaluate the presented evidence to reach a verdict.
