The Galesburg Fire Department responded to a structure fire at 175 N. Cherry Street on Dec. 5, 2024, at 3:18 AM. The response included all three stations and the 11 personnel on duty. Upon arrival, personnel encountered heavy smoke and flames coming from the southeast roof of the vacant two-story commercial building. Battalion Chief Derek Perry established command, and crews set up the aerial ladder and ground hose lines to protect the structure nearby (161 N. Cherry Street, Smokin’ Willies BBQ). An extra aerial ladder was brought to the scene to aid in extinguishing the fire. The freezing temperatures and heavy winds added an additional challenge to gaining control of the fire and stopping it from spreading to the commercial building next door. Fire crews were unable to gain access to the structure due to structural instability and advanced heavy fire conditions, and the fire was extinguished from the exterior.
An emergency callback of off-duty fire personnel was initiated to provide additional resources at the fire scene and emergency coverage for the City.
There were no injuries reported. Preliminary damages are estimated at approximately $50,000. The structure is a total loss. The cause of the fire is still under investigation by Galesburg Fire and Police Investigators. Please contact the Galesburg Police Department with any tips.
***Courtesy of the Galesburg Fire Department***
