Flames tore across the top of a west suburban apartment building Sunday, sending thick smoke over the Ellyn Crossing complex in Glendale Heights and drawing a multi-department response. Officials said the fire began on a third-floor balcony, raced into the attic and roof, and was eventually brought under control with no reported injuries. Fire investigators remained on scene after the flames were knocked down.
Video Captures Flames Racing Up To The Roof
A witness video shared with NBC Chicago shows flames and heavy smoke pouring from the roof, underscoring how fast the blaze climbed from the balcony. According to NBC Chicago, the fire started in a third-floor unit at the Ellyn Crossing Apartments near Glen Ellyn Road and, per the Bloomingdale Fire Department, “progressed rapidly” into the attic.
Fire Crews Box In The Blaze, Keep Damage To Attic
Firefighters from the Bloomingdale Fire Protection District and surrounding departments responded to the 1800 block of Glen Ellyn Road and arrived to find flames stretching from the unit’s balcony up into the eaves. The Daily Herald reports that crews were able to confine most of the damage to the attic and keep flames out of occupied living areas. No injuries were reported.
Ellyn Crossing’s Fire History And Ongoing Probe
The Ellyn Crossing complex previously underwent reconstruction after a major 2020 fire, according to the Bloomingdale Fire Protection District’s 2022 annual report, a bit of history that highlights why stopping this latest blaze at the roofline was so crucial. Investigators were still working Sunday to determine how the fire started, and officials have not released any details about a possible ignition source, per NBC Chicago.
