On Tuesday, February 13th at 5:31 PM, the Monmouth Fire Department responded to a structure fire at 314 West 3rd Avenue. While enroute, Engine 23 and Ladder 40 were informed of an occupant still inside the residence. Assistant Chief Morefield requested to upgrade to a second alarm and established command. Upon arrival, firefighters found the front of the home fully involved with fire which was also impinging on the neighboring residence. First in crews utilized master streams and attack lines to knock down the main body of the fire so they could make entry and search for the victim. Additional MFD firefighters arrived with the second alarm on Engine 21 and Engine 4 and established water supply. Chief Rexroat arrived in Unit 505, took command, and upgraded the response to a 3rd alarm. The first-in crews found the victim within minutes of arrival who unfortunately succumb to their injuries. Information regarding the victim is currently being withheld. The fire was completely extinguished, and crews cleared from the scene at 8:18 PM.
Agencies assisting at the scene include Galesburg Hospital Ambulance Service, Monmouth Police Department and the Warren County Sheriff’s Department. Fire Departments who responded include the RSP&E Fire Protection District, Central Warren Fire Protection District, and the Little York Fire Protection District.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation by the Monmouth Fire Department Investigators
and the Office of the State Fire Marshal.
***Courtesy of Monmouth Fire Chief Casey Rexroat***
