Joliet Apartment Fire Rescue: Family Saved – NBC Chicago
A Joliet apartment fire, sparked by unattended cooking, has displaced 26 residents and caused minor injuries to seven.Firefighters, including Battalion Chief Dan Berta, exhibited rapid response and heroic actions, rescuing a family trapped on a third-story balcony. Their swift intervention prevented further harm, highlighting the critical role of first responders. The incident,which occured on Essington Road,underscores the importance of fire safety measures for all residents.While the situation is now under control, displaced residents are receiving assistance from local agencies. News Directory 3 has the latest updates. More details on the ongoing investigation are planned, and community support efforts are underway. Discover what’s next as the community rallies.
Unattended Cooking Sparks Joliet Apartment Fire, Displacing Residents
Updated June 12, 2025
A Tuesday morning fire at a Joliet, Ill., apartment complex, ignited by unattended cooking, has left 26 residents displaced and seven with minor injuries. Fire officials responded swiftly to the blaze at 115 Essington Road after Battalion Chief Dan Berta was diverted from a traffic accident on Interstate 80.
Upon arrival, Berta encountered a family of three—two parents and a 3-year-old child—stranded on a third-story balcony. A maintenance worker’s quick thinking led to the retrieval of a ladder. As the worker positioned the ladder, the father, attempting to reach the second floor, fell and sustained a knee injury, later treated at St. Joseph Hospital.
Berta then directed the mother and child to remain on the balcony, assisting them down the ladder to safety. The mother and child declined further medical attention. Firefighters arriving on scene discovered heavy flames emanating from the upper unit and attic of the three-story building. All 15 occupants managed to evacuate before the blaze intensified.
The Joliet fire department confirmed that the apartment fire, now under control, was accidental. The incident underscores the importance of fire safety and the critical role first responders play in protecting the community. The displaced residents are receiving assistance from local agencies.
What’s next
Authorities are investigating the incident further and working to support the displaced residents as they seek temporary housing. Community organizations are mobilizing to provide assistance and resources to those affected by the fire.