The Galesburg Fire Department had to fight a large structure fire from the exterior because heavy fire, smoke, and heat forced them out of the structure. The house at 224 N. Broad Street is a total loss from the fire, with damage estimated at $52,500. There were no occupants inside the structure at the time of the fire, and no injuries were reported. On March 28, 2024, the Galesburg Fire Department arrived to see smoke coming from the residence. All three stations, with 11 personnel on duty at the time, responded to the fire. After the heavy fire forced firefighters out of the structure, the hose lines were used to attack the exterior fire and protect a nearby residence. Truck 51 from Central Station and Truck 53 from Fremont Station attacked the fire from above. Off-duty fire personnel were called in to provide additional help at the scene as well as emergency coverage for the city. Knoxville Fire Department provided mutual aid. An emergency demolition of the structure was recommended by the Galesburg Fire Department due to the extensive structural damage to the house and danger of collapse.
The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Galesburg Fire Department Investigators.
