The Galesburg Fire Department responded to a structure fire at 559 N. Cherry Street this morning, September 27, 2024, at 3:20 AM. The response included all three stations and the 11 personnel on duty. Upon arrival, personnel encountered heavy smoke and flames coming from the rear, second-story windows of the two-story residence. Battalion Chief Derek Perry established command, and The Fremont Street and Central Station fire crews made entry with an attack hose line. Firefighters located and removed two victims from within the structure. The victims were transported to OSF St. Mary’s Hospital by Galesburg Hospital Ambulance Service. Additional fire crews used multiple attack hose lines to extinguish the fire from the interior and exterior of the residence. A family dog was also rescued.
Eight occupants had gotten out of the residence at the time of the fire department’s arrival. The occupants were evaluated by Galesburg Hospital Ambulance Service personnel and were transported to OSF St. Mary’s for evaluation. The two victims removed by fire crews, John E. Stipp, 50, and Kaiirree J. Hippen, 6, were pronounced deceased at OSF St. Mary’s Hospital. The Red Cross has been contacted and is providing additional assistance to the displaced occupants.
An emergency callback of off-duty fire personnel was initiated to provide additional resources at the fire scene and emergency coverage for the City.
Fire damage was contained to the second floor and attic of the residence. Preliminary damage is estimated at $30,000. The fire remains under investigation by Galesburg Fire Investigators, Illinois State Police, Galesburg Police Investigators, and the State Fire Marshal’s Office.
***Courtesy of Galesburg Fire Chief Randy Hovind***
