Dog killed in Elgin 'Tent City' fire as crews battle flames in freezing temps

ELGIN, Ill. - A fire at a homeless encampment in Elgin late Thursday night destroyed three structures but left no residents or firefighters injured.

Unfortunately, a dog was killed in the blaze.

Around 11:49 p.m., the Elgin Fire Department responded to ‘Tent City’ – located near State and Wing Streets. At the scene, firefighters spotted flames near the river and found three structures fully engulfed.

Crews contained the fire to those structures and extinguished it within 30 minutes.

While searching the area, firefighters discovered the remains of a dog near one of the burned structures. No injuries to residents or first responders were reported.

Elgin fire officials said crews faced challenges in fighting the blaze amid freezing temperatures, including having to stretch their water hose more than 500 feet and the need to halt nearby Metra trains for safety.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation, but initial findings suggest it was accidental.

Community members looking to help those affected can make monetary donations to Elgin Cooperative Ministries. Volunteers are also needed for an overnight warming shelter to provide safe spaces during the cold weather.

This fire follows another blaze that broke out last week near the same location.