Massive fire destroys Whiting city councilman's home

WHITING, Ind. - A massive fire broke out Monday afternoon at the home of Whiting City Councilman Shawn Turpin, leaving his residence in ruins and affecting nearby properties.

The fire started around 4 p.m. in the garage of Turpin's home on the 1800 block of Oliver Street, according to officials. Neighbor Anthony Novak was the first to respond, calling 911 at 4:05 p.m. and attempting to help before firefighters arrived, though the blaze was too intense to contain.

The fire quickly spread, damaging three other homes and completely destroying three detached garages.

According to reports, a man was working in Turpin's garage when the fire ignited. He was taken to St. Catherine Hospital in serious condition.

Turpin expressed his devastation, noting that his home is now a total loss.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation, but fire crews have successfully extinguished the flames and continue to monitor the area for potential hot spots.

Video from this story includes footage from the Citizen App.