From Multi-Alarm Fatal Apartment Building Fire:
Multi-Alarm Fatal Apartment Building Fire
On November 12, 2024, at 10:13 p.m., the Woodstock Fire/Rescue District responded to a reported structure fire in the 700 block of St. John’s Road in Woodstock.

While units were responding, multiple 911 calls reported heavy fire conditions and potential occupants trapped inside the building.
Firefighters arrived within five minutes to find heavy fire showing from a two-story apartment complex.

A request for additional units was made through the Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS), which ultimately went to the 5th Alarm to support firefighting and station coverage efforts.

Crews initiated an aggressive interior and exterior attack on the fire, which had spread rapidly to the attic and traveled the length of the building.

Two tower ladders were deployed to extinguish the fire from above.

The fire was declared under control around midnight; however, crews remained on the scene throughout the night to address hotspots and ensure the area is safe.
Of the 24 units in the building, 12 sustained significant damage, displacing over 30 people.

The American Red Cross is assisting affected individuals with temporary relocation and essential living needs.
A total of three individuals were transported to local hospitals.

One adult female and baby were evaluated on scene for smoke inhalation.
One resident, an adult male, sustained critical, life-threatening injuries.
While initially scheduled to be airlifted, he was ultimately transported by ambulance to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
No firefighter injuries were reported.
The Woodstock Fire/Rescue District extends its gratitude to the 20+ neighboring fire departments, the Woodstock Police Department, and our dispatchers.
Their efforts were instrumental in managing the response and ensuring safety throughout the incident.
In response to the fire, a temporary relocation center has been established at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 401 St. Johns Road, Woodstock to assist displaced residents.
Residents in need of support are encouraged to visit the center for assistance and resources.
Thank you to St. John’s Church and the American Red Cross for assisting during this difficult time.The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Woodstock Fire/Rescue District, Woodstock Police Department, and Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal.
Photos are courtesy of the Woodstock Fire/Rescue District.