Fire damages barn, kills chickens

Authorities say a number of chickens perished in a barn fire Monday, January 19, 2026, in Manitowoc County.

Shortly after 2:30 p.m. the Kiel Fire Department was dispatched to the report of a fire inside of a pole barn with animals trapped inside, located in the 21000 block of Point Creek Road, about 3 miles north east of Kiel.

Initial crews on the scene found a 40’ by 60’ pole barn with heavy smoke coming from the inside of the structure.  Further investigation found a chicken coop, housed inside of the pole barn on fire.  

Crews were able to get the fire extinguished within minutes after arriving on scene.  Officials say the chicken coop was a total loss, and there was significant smoke and heat damage to property within the shed.  

Fire officials say the exact cause of the fire was unable to be determined due to multiple potential ignition sources, including heating devices and extension cords in the area.

The Kiel Fire Department reminds the public to be cautious when using space heaters and extension cords, and to ensure they are being used as directed by the manufacturer.