On January 1, 2026, at approximately 12:48 p.m., a Knox County Sheriff’s Office deputy assigned to the Abingdon area responded to Blue Bell Towers in Abingdon for a reported fire alarm activation.
Upon entering the building, the deputy made contact with several tenants on the first floor. At that time, the source of the fire alarm could not immediately be identified. While continuing to search the building, the deputy observed heavy smoke originating from the second floor and immediately began advising residents to evacuate while requesting additional units.
As additional officers arrived, heavy smoke was observed on the second floor and extending through the hallways of floors three through six. Dispatch was advised of a working structure fire. 
Abingdon Fire Protection District responded and confirmed an active fire in a second-floor apartment and began fire suppression efforts.
Knox County Sheriff’s Office deputies, working alongside Abingdon First Responders and Abingdon Fire Protection personnel, evacuated approximately 53 residents, including several individuals within wheelchairs with physical disabilities and several children.
Galesburg Hospital Ambulance Service (GHAS) arrived on scene and treated individuals for smoke inhalation. One Knox County Sheriff’s Office deputy was transported to St. Mary’s Medical Center for smoke inhalation and later released.
Life Flight was placed on standby but was not required.
No serious or life-threatening injuries were reported.
During evacuation efforts, responders rescued multiple animals from the building. One animal required veterinary evaluation. One cat was located deceased on the second floor.
The Knox County Housing Authority responded and worked closely with deputies and first responders to assist with resident accountability and to identify whether any pets remained inside the apartments.
Additional resources were requested. Residents and their pets were transported to Hedding Grade School, which served as a temporary shelter. The 
American Red Cross provided food, blankets, and emergency assistance. Transportation support was provided by Abingdon-Avon CUSD 217 and Galesburg Public Transportation.
The Knox County–Galesburg Dispatch Center played a critical role coordinating agencies and managing communications throughout this incident.
The Illinois Office of the State Fire Marshal responded to assist with the investigation. The cause of the fire has not yet been determined and remains under investigation.
We extend sincere thanks to all responding agencies, dispatch personnel, and community members whose professionalism and cooperation ensured the safe evacuation of residents during a dangerous and rapidly developing situation.
Donation Information:
For those wishing to help, The Cupboard and Closet, located at the Abingdon Community Center on W. Martin Street, is accepting donations to assist residents displaced by the Blue Bell Towers fire and the community.
Drop-offs can be made at the east door.
Arrangements may be made by calling Joann McElrea at 309-368-2168.
***Courtesy of the Knox County Sheriff’s Facebook Page***
