The Galesburg Fire Department responded to a structure fire at 53 Duffield Street this morning, Sunday, February 8th, at 12:02 AM. The response included all three fire stations and 11 personnel on duty. Upon arrival, fire crews encountered heavy smoke and flames visible from a two-story residential structure. Battalion Chief Dewey Brackett established command. Due to the fire’s quick advancement, all fire crews immediately enacted defensive fire operations, including the use of the aerial ladder, to protect surrounding homes. All residents and a dog had exited the structure before fire crews arrived. No injuries to fire personnel or occupants were reported; however, one resident self-transported to the hospital for evaluation. An emergency callback of off-duty personnel was initiated to provide emergency coverage for the city. The Knoxville Fire Protection District assisted with the emergency coverage. Ameren assisted on scene, securing utilities to the structure, and the Galesburg Street Department salted roads near the fire area to remove ice hazards from water operations. The cause of the fire is under investigation by Galesburg Fire Department Investigators.
Because the structure was dangerously unstable, authorities ordered an emergency demolition to protect the public and surrounding properties.
***Courtesy of Galesburg Fire Chief, Randy Hovind***
