
(January 31, 2025) Manhattan, IL – At approximately 7:11 AM, the Manhattan Fire Protection District (MFPD) was dispatched to a reported fully engulfed outbuilding located on the 13500 block of Kennedy Road in Manhattan.
The first units arrived on scene within eight minutes of the initial call for service. Fire crews reportedheavy smoke and flames showing from a fully engulfed 50’x 50’ outbuilding with multiple exposures and animals trapped inside the barn. A full still alarm was activated for additional personnel and equipment. Firefighters quickly established rural water supply and immediately began fire attack on the building, as well as rescue efforts for the livestock. The fire was controlled before reaching any nearby structures. The fire was contained and extinguished in thirty minutes.
All occupants safely evacuated the building, and no injuries were reported by civilians or firefighters. Tragically, and despite all efforts, many chickens did perish in the fire.
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by Manhattan Fire Protection District Investigators.
Multiple agencies were on the scene and at the Manhattan Fire Stations to cover any additional calls for service during that time. These include Frankfort Fire Protection District, New Lenox Fire Protection District, East Joliet Fire Protection District, Monee Fire Protection District, Manteno Fire Protection District, Lockport Fire Protection District, Mokena Park Fire Protection District, Orland Fire Protection District, Grant Park Fire Protection District, Beecher Fire Protection District, and University Park Fire Protection District.