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West Ridge Apartment Fire Injures 2, Displaces 20 in Overnight Blaze

Chicago firefighters executed ladder rescues under frigid, hard-to-access conditions.

Overview

  • The fire broke out around 1 a.m. at 2339-41 W. Touhy Ave. in a 24-unit building just east of Western Avenue.
  • Firefighters used at least three ladder sets to rescue four people, according to Assistant Deputy Fire Commissioner John Gies.
  • Two people were treated for injuries, including a Chicago police member with minor injuries and another person with a leg injury reported in good condition.
  • Police said 18 adults and two children were displaced as crews evacuated residents and extinguished the blaze.
  • Investigators believe the fire started on the first floor and extended to the second, and the cause remains under investigation, with cold weather and the absence of a driveway hindering access.