From the Cary Fire Protection District:
Fire Displaces Three Following Suspected Lightning Strike
On Thursday, July 10, 2025, at 10:07 p.m., the Cary Fire Protection District was dispatched to the 500 block of Surrey Ridge Drive in Cary for a reported residential structure fire.
Initial 911 callers reported the possibility that the home had been struck by lightning during a strong thunderstorm moving through the area.
Firefighters arrived within five minutes to find heavy fire showing from the rear and side of a two-story residence.
Crews quickly deployed hose lines and secured a water supply from a nearby hydrant.
The incident was upgraded to a working fire, bringing in additional personnel and change of quarters companies to support operations and ensure continued coverage across the district.
Despite heavy downpours and active thunderstorm conditions, firefighters brought the fire under control by approximately 10:30 p.m.
Three occupants were home at the time and were able to escape unharmed prior to the arrival of first responders.
Searches confirmed that no one remained inside the residence.
The home sustained heavy damage to the upper floor and attic.
Due to the extent of the damage, the house is considered uninhabitable.
The three displaced occupants will be receiving assistance from family and friends.
While a lightning strike is believed to have sparked the fire, the exact cause remains under investigation by the Cary Fire Protection District.
The Cary Fire Protection District would like to thank the Barrington Fire Department, Cary Police Department, Crystal Lake Fire Rescue Department, Fox River Grove Fire Protection District, McHenry Township Fire Protection District, Nunda Rural Fire Protection District, and our dispatchers for their assistance during the incident.
Photos are courtesy of the Cary Fire Protection District.
