On Saturday, July 25th at 10:22 PM, the Monmouth Fire Department responded to 1231 Birchwood Drive for a possible structure fire in a single-story four-unit apartment building. While enroute, MFD received information from a Monmouth Police Officer who arrived on scene and confirmed a fire in the residence. Assistant Chief Spears upgraded the alarm to a Working Still to notify off duty personnel to respond along with Warren County Ambulance. Engine 23 arrived on scene and reported moderate smoke visible from the residence and added they would be pulling a 1 ¾ inch attack line. Ladder 40 arrived on scene and Assistant Chief Spears assumed Command and upgraded the alarm to the Box Level requesting the Central Warren and RSP&E Fire Protection Districts to respond for support. Firefighters made quick entry into the residence and were able to knock down the fire within two minutes.
The apartment sustained major smoke and heat damage and is currently uninhabitable. One resident sustained minor injuries from the smoke and was transported to the hospital for treatment.
An investigation into the cause of the fire by Monmouth Fire Department Investigators determined the cause to be accidental.
MFD was assisted by Galesburg Hospital Ambulance Service, RSP&E Fire Protection District, Central Warren Fire Protection District, Monmouth Police Department, Warren County Sheriff’s Department, Ameren, and Nationwide Chaplain’s Service. 1-800-BOARDUP responded to the scene to assist with securing the residence and for victim assistance.
***Courtesy of Assistant Chief Spears***
