One man was injured and two dogs were pronounced deceased following a house fire over the weekend.
According to a release from the city, 11 fire personnel on duty from all three stations responded to 99 Elm Street for a report of a structure fire at around 5:13 on Saturday morning.
Before the fire crews arrived on the scene, the three occupants of the residence were able to self-rescue through the front of the home with one resident stating she smelled something burning before encountering the fire while exiting the bedroom. They were able to rescue one of the three dogs inside the residence.
Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy smoke and fire with Battalion Chief Donald Brackett establishing command and the Brooks Street Station crew using a line to attack the largest portion of the fire at the rear of the structure. Crews were on the scene for several hours putting the fire out.
An emergency callback was initiated to provide emergency coverage to the city.
The injured male was transported to OSF St. Mary Medical Center for minor injuries while the two deceased dogs were recovered by fire personnel and released to the Knox County Animal Control.
Temporary lodging was provided to the occupants of the home by 1-800 Board-Up and the Red Cross and Salvation Army were notified.
The house and contents are considered a total loss with damage estimated at $25,000.
Galesburg Fire Department Investigators stated that the fire is under investigation.
