The Champaign Fire Department responded to a working fire at 609 S. Randolph Street, Friday, April 27, 2018, at 6:06 p.m. Upon arrival on the scene, fire crews found heavy smoke and fire coming from a third-floor balcony and attic.
Firefighters entered the building and performed searches while also conducting an aggressive interior fire attack. A second-alarm was struck early in this incident. Firefighters were eventually forced from the building as the well-advanced fire spread through the attic of the structure and aerial devices were utilized to control the fire. Firefighters used hand-lines to extinguish the remaining fire. Fire crews will remain on scene overnight continuing to extinguish any fire that may remain.
The cause of the fire remains undetermined as investigators continue their scene examination. Ninety-seven occupants of the apartment building have been displaced because of this fire. There were no firefighter or civilian injuries reported.
The Champaign Fire Department reminds all citizens to maintain a working smoke alarm in their place of residence and to have and practice a home escape plan. Smoke alarms can provide early notification when seconds count.
Media Contact: Randy Smith, Deputy Fire Marshal | Phone: (217) 403-7212