From the Harvard Fire Protection District:
Six Horses Lost in Overnight Harvard Barn Fire
On Sunday, June 9, 2025, at 11:58 p.m., the Harvard Fire Protection District was dispatched to the 19100 block of Crowley Road in unincorporated Harvard for a reported structure fire.
Initial 911 callers reported a fully involved barn with animals possibly inside.
Firefighters arrived within 10 minutes and confirmed heavy fire coming from a 50-by-60-foot pole barn, with fire extending toward a second, much larger barn nearby.
Due to the rural setting, visible fire conditions, and limited access to water, the incident was upgraded to a second alarm box, bringing in additional water supplies and manpower from neighboring departments.
Crews deployed multiple hose lines to bring the fire under control while simultaneously establishing rural water operations at the roadway using water tenders and portable tanks.
Additional personnel focused on protecting the nearby barn and preventing further spread. T
he main body of fire was contained within approximately 60 minutes.
Firefighters remained on scene for several hours extinguishing residual hot spots and assisting with the investigation.
Six horses located inside the barn did not survive.
No civilian or firefighter injuries were reported.
The barn and its contents are considered a complete loss. Initial damage estimates are not currently available.
More than a dozen neighboring fire departments responded to assist with the operation.
Their support underscores the effectiveness and importance of the mutual aid system in managing large-scale rural incidents.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Harvard Fire Protection District.
Photos are courtesy of the Harvard Fire Protection District.
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WMAQ-TV used Alex Vuchi photos and press release:
So did Fox32:
