Man killed, several burned, dozens displaced in Woodstock fire

A man was killed and several people were burned and suffered smoke inhalatino during an apartment fire that also left 30 people displaced in suburban Woodstock late Tuesday.

Firefighters responded to the blaze just before 10:15 p.m. in the 700 block of St. Johns Road, according to the Woodstock Fire/Rescue District.

While units were responding, multiple 911 calls reported heavy fire conditions and potential occupants trapped inside the building, Woodstock fire officials said. Firefighters arrived within five minutes to find heavy fire showing from the two-story building.

An unidentified man who suffered life-threatening injuries was taken to an area hospital where he was pronounced dead, fire officials said.

Fire officials said several people were taken to area hospitals with burns and a woman and baby were evaluated at the scene for smoke inhalation.

Of the 24 units in the building, 12 sustained significant damage, displacing over 30 people, authorities said. A temporary relocation center was established at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 401 St. Johns Road, to help those displaced during the fire.

The fire was under control by midnight, but firefighters stayed at the scene throughout the night to address hotspots, officials said.

The American Red Cross were also on scene to provide assistance.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Woodstock Fire/Rescue District, Woodstock Police Department, and Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal.