Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
Citing several fire code violations, the Indiana State Fire Marshal's office is seeking to close a Syracuse business until corrections are made.
According to a lawsuit filed recently in Kosciusko Circuit Court, Owen Cobbum is operating Combo Auto and Marine at 1310 S. Huntington St. despite the existence of alleged dangerous conditions.
Court documents indicate the facility presents a danger of combustion in several respects, including open splices in the wiring for fluorescent light fixtures, extension cords being used for permanent wiring and flammable paints and acetone improperly stored indoors.
Also, violations are noted in the outside storage of liquid in containers near the street and the property line, and a collapsed roof on the south storage building reduces clearance between ignition sources, such as light fixtures, heaters and flame producing devices with combustible storage.
Additionally, the State Fire Marshal indicates there are no fire apparatus access roads provided and maintained in accordance with Indiana Fire Code. Also, the unimproved ground at the facility cannot support the imposed loads of fire apparatus and does not provide an all-weather driving surface.
An injunction is sought for Cobbum to cease operation of the business until all violations are corrected.
