The Galesburg Fire Department responded to a structure fire at 224 N. Broad Street today, March 28, 2024, at 1:17 PM. The response included all three stations and the 11 personnel on duty. Upon arrival, personnel encountered smoke coming from the residence. Battalion Chief Brackett established command and fire crews used multiple hose lines to make entry and attempt to extinguish the fire. While operating on the interior, they encountered heavy fire, heat, and smoke conditions and were forced to back out of the structure. The hose lines were positioned for an exterior fire attack and to protect a nearby residence. Truck 51 from Central Station and Truck 53 from Fremont Street Station were used to flow water from an elevated position.
There were no occupants inside the residence at the time of the fire and no injuries were reported.
An emergency callback of off-duty fire personnel was initiated to provide additional resources at the scene as well as emergency coverage for the City. A mutual aid request was also made to the Knoxville Fire Department.
The house was determined to be a total loss with preliminary damage estimates at $52,500. Due to the extensive structural damage and the danger of collapse, an emergency demolition of the property has been recommended by the Galesburg Fire Department.
Suppression efforts are still ongoing. The cause of the fire is still under investigation by Galesburg Fire Investigators.
***Courtesy of the Galesburg Fire Department***
