Five days after a lightning-related fire forced the evacuation of 127 residents from The Blake at St. Johns on County Road 210, some residents remain displaced, with no announced timeline for returning home.
The fire broke out around 9 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 16, at the assisted living facility at 2430 County Road 210, east of St. Johns Parkway. Firefighters found flames pushing through the roof on the building's west side after lightning was believed to have struck one of the chimneys during a severe storm, according to St. Johns County Fire Rescue spokesperson Chris Naff.
Crews from St. Johns County Fire Rescue and the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department brought the blaze under control in about an hour, but the chimney and attic sustained serious damage. Water used to fight the fire caused additional damage throughout the structure, leaving some residents unable to return.
As we reported Aug. 17, 83 residents on the building's east side sheltered in place during the evacuation. No fire-related injuries were reported. One person was transported from the scene in stable condition for a medical issue unrelated to the fire, Naff said.
Where residents are now
First responders set up a family reunification area at the scene the night of the fire so relatives could pick up residents directly. Buses transported those without nearby family to other facilities, according to Hoodline.
The American Red Cross and neighboring long-term care facilities are providing emergency housing assistance to displaced residents unable to return to their suites. The relocation is complicated by the level of care many residents require. The Blake holds an Extended Congregate Care designation under its state license, which allows it to provide additional nursing and personal-care services. Displaced residents needing that continuous specialized care cannot simply move to any available bed.
As of Wednesday, Aug. 19, officials had not announced when the damaged west wing would reopen or where longer-term temporary placements would be arranged.
State fire marshal investigation
The Florida State Fire Marshal has been assigned to conduct an official origin-and-cause investigation. While Naff said Sunday that "lightning is believed to have struck one of the building's chimneys," the state investigation will determine the cause.
No findings have been released.
The Blake at St. Johns is a senior living community on County Road 210 licensed for 137 private Extended Congregate Care beds. The property sold for $32.27 million on March 4, 2026, when Pensacola-based QSL Management transferred it through Blake at St. Johns LLC.
Residents or family members seeking information can contact the St. Johns County Fire Rescue non-emergency line or the American Red Cross Northeast Florida chapter.
