Lightning Likely Caused Structure Fire on Henry Beadel Drive

March 16, 2026

At 7:14 a.m. on Monday, March 16, Tallahassee Fire Department crews responded to a reported structure fire on Henry Beadel Drive. The incident initially began as an alarm activation, but a caller arriving on scene reported flames coming from the roof of the structure.

Upon arrival, firefighters observed fire on the second floor that was quickly spreading into the attic. The building was a historic residential structure originally built in 1895 on the Tall Timbers Plantation property. The structure was vacant at the time of the fire.

Firefighters made an initial attack on the fire while also working to protect nearby structures from exposure. During firefighting operations, the second floor of the structure collapsed as the fire continued to spread through the building. Due to the rapid spread of the fire through the roof and attic space, the structure ultimately became a total loss. During operations, crews were able to remove and preserve several historical antiques and items that had been stored inside the building.

One firefighter sustained minor injuries during the incident and was transported to the hospital for evaluation.

The fire is believed to have been caused by a lightning strike.

Leon County Sheriff’s Office, Leon County EMS, Talquin Electric Cooperative, and Bradfordville Volunteer Fire Department assisted on scene.

For more information about TFD, as well as fire safety tips, visit Talgov.com/Fire.