The Leighton Township Fire Department this afternoon handled a very large grass fire along the railroad tracks in Leighton Township and after initial units arrived on scene, it was determined the fire had extended into a neighboring 100 x 30 barn full of horses. 

The Dorr Township Fire Department and City of Wayland Fire Dept. both were called for a full assist for combination attacks of the grass fire and brush fire as well as the structure. The barn was saved and the animals evacuated before injuries.

Leighton Fire Chief Matt Weston said, “Thanks go to the departments that assisted and Allegan County Central Dispatch for providing fantastic communication in this evolving incident.

“We cannot stress enough how dry conditions are right now. Please use care when cooking outside, discarding cigarettes or anything else that could start a fire and cause loss of property. We are all hoping for rain this weekend!”