FAIRFIELD COUNTY, OH — A tragic field fire in the 9000 block of Palmer Road NW on March 11, 2025, claimed the life of one individual, prompting an investigation by local authorities. The Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office, along with the Basil Fire Department and emergency medical services, responded to the scene after receiving reports of an out-of-control open burn.
At approximately 1:49 p.m., dispatch received a call about a fire that had spread rapidly in a field near Palmer and Smoke Roads. Emergency responders arrived to find the fire fueled by dry and windy conditions, making suppression efforts challenging. During their response, firefighters discovered an adult male, later identified as 61-year-old Boyd Bowman, who had suffered severe burn injuries.
Bowman was immediately transported to OSU Hospital but later succumbed to his injuries. The Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office expressed their condolences, with Sheriff Alex Lape stating, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and loved ones of the victim during this difficult time. This incident is a tragic reminder of the dangers of open burning, particularly in dry conditions.”
The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office, the Basil Fire Department, and the State Fire Marshal. Authorities are urging the public to exercise extreme caution when engaging in outdoor burning and to adhere to all safety guidelines and local regulations.
Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact the Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office at 740-652-7911 or submit a tip via the Sheriff’s Office App Tip Line. The community is mourning the loss of Boyd Bowman and reflecting on the importance of fire safety to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
