The following report was posted on MountProspect.org;
[Posted June 18, 11 AM] On Monday, June 17, 2024, at approximately 6:45 PM, the Mount Prospect Fire Department responded to a structure fire at the Orion Parkview Apartments on the 1800 block of west Palm Drive. The call came in as an activated fire alarm but was quickly upgraded to a confirmed fire when the Fire Department received reports of smoke showing.
First arriving units were on the scene within three minutes and noted heavy smoke and fire coming from the roof. Crews initiated a primary search and interior attack of the 3rd floor and were met with heavy smoke and high heat. Interior conditions quickly deteriorated, and at approximately 7:30 PM, all fire companies were ordered out of the building and defensive operations initiated.
Due to weather conditions and anticipated extended operations, command upgraded to a 3rd alarm, which brought in over 30 fire and EMS units from surrounding communities. The design of the building made the fire very difficult to extinguish from outside the structure. Fire was reported under control at approximately 3:15 AM Tuesday morning.
Approximately 100 individuals were displaced from the apartment building, but with the assistance of the Red Cross and the Village of Mount Prospect Human Services Department, all have a safe place to stay. Mount Prospect CERT and Salvation Army also responded to the scene and assisted both residents and first responders. The Mount Prospect Public Works Department was instrumental in ensuring sufficient water volume and pressure as well as providing fuel for apparatus working throughout the evening.
“This was a perfect storm of operational challenges presented to responding firefighters,” stated Village Manager Michael Cassady. “The heat, mansard roof design and excessive smoke made for very difficult conditions. Our firefighters did an exceptional job containing the fire. It was heartening to see the immediate response from Village team members from Building and Inspection Services, Human Services, Public Works and Police to provide much-needed support to displaced residents. As always, they performed with grace and consideration of our residents who had lost so much,” said Cassady.
Based on reports from initial fire companies, the fire likely started in the cockloft or small attic space, but the cause of the fire is still under investigation. The structure needs to be assessed by building engineers before any personnel can enter to begin the investigation. The 36-unit structure is expected to be a total loss. One firefighter suffered a minor injury and was treated at the scene.
“Tenants were alerted by a fire alarm and police officers and were able to evacuate the building,” said Chief John Dolan. One tenant had to be rescued from a balcony when he ran back into the burning structure for personal belongings. “It is very important residents of all types of homes have an escape plan, and once out safely, not reenter the structure for any reason. Crews from all responding departments and agencies did a tremendous job on a very stubborn and difficult fire.”
For more information on fire safety in the home, please contact the Mount Prospect Fire Prevention Bureau at 847-818-5253.
