House fire in Churchill deemed accidental

Firefighters defeated a blaze that struck a home on Midway Road in Churchill.

Amsterdam Fire Department responded to 75 Midway Road shortly after Gallatin County 911 received a 911 call at about 3:47 p.m. April 16 regarding a residential fire.

"Upon arrival, crews found a working structure fire and initiated an aggressive interior fire attack," reads a press release from Amsterdam Rural Fire. "Firefighters worked quickly to contain the fire and prevent further extension."

The home was unoccupied, and no injuries to occupants or responders was reported. The State of Montana Fire Marshal’s Office performed an investigation and and determined the fire was accidental and originated in the floor.

"This incident serves as a critical reminder that working smoke alarms significantly increase the chance of survival in a fire," reads the release. "Amsterdam Fire encourages all residents to check their smoke alarms monthly, replace batteries as needed, and ensure alarms are installed in every sleeping area and on every level of the home."

The agency thanked its mutual aid partners who assisted in responding to the fire: American Medical Response, Bozeman Fire Department, Central Valley Fire District, Gallatin Gateway Fire District, Hyalite Fire District, Manhattan Fire Department, Three Forks Fire Department, and the Gallatin County Sheriffs Office.