Two Suspicious Garage Fires on Hardin Avenue in Jacksonville Prompt Arson Investigation

Jacksonville firefighters responded to two separate garage fires on Hardin Avenue over the weekend, and investigators from the State Fire Marshal’s Office are now examining whether the blazes were intentionally set.

The first call came about 4:15 a.m. Saturday for a fire at 1608 Hardin. Fire Chief Rich Evans reports heavy flames at the back of the garage, with the fire gaining entry into the structure. Crews knocked that blaze down quickly but estimated about $10,000 in damage to the garage and its contents. No injuries were reported.

The second incident occurred the following night in the 700 block of Hardin. Jacksonville firefighters again extinguished flames rapidly and limited damage to the garage. Officials note that both fires began at the rear of the garages and exhibit similar characteristics, which led local authorities to request assistance from the State Fire Marshal’s Office to investigate possible arson.

Firefighting units’ quick response appears to have prevented greater loss and any injuries. Still, the back-to-back timing and shared point of origin in the rear of each structure have heightened concern among neighbors on both sides of the Morgan County line. Garages in this part of Jacksonville and South Jacksonville are often used for vehicle storage, tools and heating equipment, increasing potential risk to nearby homes when fires spread.

The involvement of the State Fire Marshal’s Office signals an elevated investigative focus. That office will determine cause and origin through on-site examination and by collecting evidence, witness statements and any available surveillance footage. Jacksonville officials have not released further details about what, if anything, has been recovered or whether there are suspects.

For residents, the immediate implications are practical and civic. Property owners should check security cameras, motion lighting and locks on backyard access points and garage doors, and report any unusual activity to Jacksonville police or the fire department. Insurance claims and repair timelines hinge on investigators’ findings, particularly if the fires are ruled incendiary.

These incidents also test local emergency response and community communication. Fire crews contained both fires quickly, underscoring municipal capacity to limit harm, but the pattern raises questions about neighborhood safety and preventive measures. As the State Fire Marshal’s probe proceeds, Jacksonville officials are likely to provide updates on cause, potential motives and any recommended precautions.

What happens next will matter for residents facing repairs, for those monitoring neighborhood security, and for public officials responsible for preventing similar incidents. The investigation’s findings will shape next steps for homeowners, first responders and local government oversight.