At around midnight on Monday, February 12, 2018, Chicago firefighters were called into action when flames erupted inside a commercial building located at 4749 W. Lake Street. The fire was initially detected by Truck 29 as they returned from responding to another incident—a Still & Box Alarm fire. By the time crews arrived, the structure was fully engulfed in fire, prompting the dispatch to upgrade the response to a 2-11 alarm. Unfortunately, before long, the building collapsed, adding significant complexity to the firefighting efforts.
In response, firefighters deployed multiple master streams from various units, including Tower Ladder 5, Tower Ladder 14, Squad 2A, and Truck 29. These efforts were critical in managing the intense blaze. Despite the challenging conditions, one firefighter sustained an injury after slipping on a patch of ice and was promptly taken to the hospital for treatment.
Attached are several images capturing the intensity and scale of the operation. Photographer Larry Shapiro documented the brave efforts of the firefighters, showcasing their determination amidst perilous circumstances. Among the images, you’ll see Tower Ladder 14’s E-ONE CCyclone II HP100 in action, as well as Engine 113 and Squad 2A working diligently. There are also shots highlighting Engine 95 as spare apparatus, providing additional support to the front lines. Additional photos include firefighters pulling hoses in the cold, paramedics attending to an injured colleague, and Engine 68 standing by as a spare unit.
The firefighting effort involved not only battling the inferno but also coordinating operations near elevated train tracks, where firefighters directed water streams with precision. It's a testament to their skill and dedication that such a severe situation was managed with minimal loss of life.
For more visuals from this dramatic event, visit Shapirophotography.net. These photos offer a glimpse into the challenges faced by Chicago firefighters and the bravery required to protect our communities.
I’ll continue to keep an eye on any updates or developments regarding this incident. Stay safe out there, and always appreciate the hard work of those who put themselves in harm’s way to keep us all secure.