Charging Device Sparked Fire That Destroyed Four Buildings in Ovid

Sheriff Thompson reported that between 15 and 20 residents were displaced by the fire. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported.

A fire that tore through four buildings on Main Street in Ovid Tuesday night was caused by a charging device plugged into an electrical outlet, Seneca County Sheriff Timothy Thompson confirmed Wednesday.

The blaze began in an apartment above the Ovid Big M, with a 911 call reporting the fire shortly after 5:45 p.m. According to investigators, a resident had plugged in the device earlier in the day and later returned to find it emitting smoke. Upon noticing the danger, she quickly gathered her children and evacuated.

Flames rapidly spread, engulfing the Ovid Big M, a tax collector’s office, a laundromat, and the Italian Kitchen restaurant at the corner of Main and Seneca streets.

Sheriff Thompson reported that between 15 and 20 residents were displaced by the fire. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported.

Fire crews battled the inferno for 11 hours before clearing the scene, though lingering smoke was still visible into Wednesday afternoon, according to the Ovid Fire Department.

Authorities continue to assess the damage and assist affected residents in the aftermath of the devastating fire.