From the Harvard Fire Protection District:
Fire Destroys Small Barn; Chickens Perish
On Saturday, November 15, 2025 at 5:29 a.m., the Harvard Fire Protection District responded to the 4700 block of Lindwall Road for a reported structure fire.
Initial reports from the homeowner indicated an outbuilding was on fire near the house and that several vehicles were also involved.
Firefighters arrived and located a barn approximately 30 by 45 feet in size fully engulfed and already collapsing.
Two vehicles were burning, and the fire had begun spreading to the house, prompting the incident to be upgraded to a working structure fire response and additional personnel and water resources to be requested.
The fire was brought under control within 25 minutes, and crews remained on scene for approximately two additional hours to conduct overhaul on the house and to check for any extension into the attic, as well as to extinguish hot spots in the debris of the barn.
The house sustained minor damage and will remain habitable.
The family exited prior to firefighters arriving and were unharmed.
Between 50 and 60 chickens were believed to have been inside the barn, and all are believed to have perished in the fire.
Although the fire is not believed to be suspicious, the exact cause remains under investigation by the Harvard Fire Protection District.
As a general reminder, residents are encouraged to routinely inspect any heating or electrical equipment used in sheds or outbuildings to ensure it is properly rated for the space, kept clear of combustibles, and in good working condition.
The Harvard Fire Protection District appreciated the assistance from Hebron-Alden-Greenwood Fire Protection District, Marengo Fire & Rescue Districts, Wonder Lake Fire Protection District, Woodstock Fire/Rescue District, Northwest Rescue, the McHenry County Sheriff’s Office, and our NERCOM dispatchers.
Photos are courtesy of the Harvard Fire Protection District.
