From the Marengo Fire and Rescue Districts:
Marengo Responds to Overnight Barn Fire
On December 24, 2024, at 3:00 a.m., Marengo Fire & Rescue Districts were dispatched to a reported structure fire in the 10800 block of Carls Road in unincorporated Marengo.
Upon arrival, firefighters encountered significant fire conditions in a large barn measuring approximately 150 by 80 feet.
Firefighters started by deploying hose lines to contain the fire and establishing water supply operations along the roadway to address the challenges of the rural location.
Due to the size of the fire and the need for additional resources, the incident was initially upgraded to a 2nd Alarm MABAS Box and later elevated to a 3rd Alarm for additional water tenders and manpower.
Operating in a rural area with no nearby fire hydrants, firefighters relied on water tenders to shuttle water from a hydrant located approximately 3.5 miles away.
Efforts were focused on containing the fire and protecting nearby structures from radiant heat.
One resident was transported to a hospital for a medical emergency unrelated to the fire.
The fire was declared under control by 4:30 a.m., with crews remaining on the scene until 7:00 a.m. to extinguish remaining hotspots and assist with the investigation.
No injuries were reported among firefighters or other individuals. However, three horses and a pony were unable to escape the barn and were lost in the fire.
The fire is not believed to be suspicious in nature, but it remains under investigation by the Marengo Fire & Rescue Districts.
We extend our gratitude to the following agencies for their assistance: Algonquin, Belvidere, Boone County #1, Boone County #2, Burlington, Cherry Valley, Elgin, Genoa-Kingston, Hampshire, Hebron, Huntley, Kirkland, Pingree Grove, Richmond, Salvation Army, Rutland-Dundee, Sycamore, Union, Woodstock, and the McHenry County Sheriff’s Office.
Attached photos are courtesy of the Marengo Fire & Rescue Districts.
