Townhome under construction engulfed in flames in Hampshire

HAMPSHIRE — On March 16, at approximately 3:30 a.m., the Hampshire Fire Protection District responded to a structure fire in the 1000 block of Briar Glen Court.

At 3:35 a.m., Hampshire Fire Department Engine 1413 reported that a three-story, six-unit townhome under construction had three of its units fully engulfed in flames.

Hampshire Fire Chief Trevor Herrmann stated that two additional nearby buildings sustained damage because of fire exposure. Flames also spread to adjacent lumber piles. There were three 500-pound propane tanks next to the burning building as well, said Herrmann.

Three large-diameter hose lines and an aerial master stream were put into operation to battle the fire. At 4:40 a.m., fire personnel were able to get the fire under control. The fire was able to be contained to three units with minor damage being reported on a fourth unit and other adjacent structures.

No individuals were injured as a result of the fire. Herrman stated that the alarm had to be upgraded to a “Box Alarm,” which resulted in fire departments responding from Burlington, Pingree Grove, Genoa, Fox River, Huntley, Marengo, Elburn, Sycamore, West Dundee, Rutland-Dundee, and Maple Park.

The East Dundee and Woodstock Fire Departments covered calls for the Hampshire Fire Protection District. Firefighters remained on the scene until at least 9:30 a.m. to continue investigation efforts and to check for any hot spots.

The Hanover Township Emergency Services, Kane County Emergency Management, and the Hampshire Police Department also responded to the incident and assisted where needed.

The fire currently remains under investigation by the Kane County Task Force and the Illinois State Fire Marshal. Preliminary damage is estimated to total $1,000,000.