OCALA, FL (352today.com) – At approximately 7:25 a.m. on Saturday, October 4, 2026, emergency services responded to a reported explosion in the North Magnolia Business District, near Main Street Mower (733 North Magnolia Ave). Witnesses reported hearing a loud boom, followed by smoke and a fire-like glow emerging from the building.
Upon arrival, firefighters from Ocala Fire Rescue advanced a hose line while a captain utilized a K-12 saw to cut an entry point through the service garage door. Inside, they encountered high heat, heavy black smoke, and zero visibility. The crew immediately initiated a fire attack to locate the seat of the fire.
After successfully extinguishing the flames, the firefighters conducted ventilation operations and checked for any remaining hot spots. The fire was concentrated in the shop area, causing significant smoke and fire damage. Preliminary investigations suggest the fire was accidental and electrical in nature.
Fortunately, due to the early hour of the incident, employees were in the parking area and safely away from the building when the fire was detected. No injuries were reported.
To ensure public safety, authorities closed North Magnolia Avenue between NE 5th St. and NE 9th St. during the incident.
CSX was notified because of the fire’s proximity to nearby railroad tracks and the resulting smoke affecting the area.
Responding agencies included Ocala Fire Rescue (Engine 1, Ladder 3, Rescue 3, Engine 5, Engine 7, Squad 7, BC 11, BC 22, EM1, a Safety Officer, and the Deputy Chief), the Ocala Police Department, Marion County Fire Rescue, and the Ocala Building Department.