On Sunday, Oct. 4, at approximately 8:14 p.m., the Villa Park Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at a residence in the 400 block of North Bierman Avenue. According to the fire department, a neighbor contacted 911 after observing smoke and fire emitting from the home. While en route, crews were advised that a resident was believed to be inside.
Upon arrival, Villa Park Engine 82 encountered heavy smoke and fire conditions extending from a second-floor window. Crews quickly deployed multiple handlines and began coordinated exterior and interior fire suppression operations while simultaneously conducting a primary search for the resident. Engine 82 made initial contact with the resident in an effort to have her exit the structure. It is believed she made her way into the home in an attempt to retrieve her dog.
As mutual-aid companies arrived, additional crews were assigned to assist with fire suppression and continue primary searches throughout the residence. Villa Park and Lombard crews located the resident and removed her from the home, transferring care to the awaiting medic unit. The resident was treated and transported to Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital in Downers Grove. She was later transferred to Loyola University Medical Center in Maywood, where she was listed in critical condition.
The fire was quickly controlled, with extensive fire damage confined mostly to the second floor of the residence. With no ambulance calls at the time and both engine companies fully staffed and in quarters, crews were able to conduct a rapid search for the victim and prevent the fire from spreading to adjacent buildings. No firefighter injuries were reported. The resident’s dog was located during the primary search, and did not survive the fire.
The Villa Park Fire Investigation Unit was on the scene, assisted by the DuPage County Fire Investigation Task Force and the Office of the State Fire Marshal’s K9 unit. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
The Villa Park Fire Department received assistance at the scene from firefighters from Elmhurst, Lombard, Oakbrook Terrace, and York Center. The Villa Park Police Department also provided assistance.
