A two-story Galesburg home was destroyed in an early morning fire Sunday, requiring emergency demolition after the blaze left the structure unstable.
The Galesburg Fire Department responded at 12:02 a.m. to 53 Duffield St., where crews found heavy smoke and flames. They shifted to defensive operations, using the aerial ladder to protect nearby homes as the fire spread rapidly.
All residents and a dog had evacuated safely before arrival. No injuries to occupants or firefighters occurred, though one resident sought hospital evaluation.
An off-duty callback provided city coverage, aided by the Knoxville Fire Protection District. Ameren secured utilities, and the Galesburg Street Department salted icy roads from water operations.
The cause remains under investigation by Galesburg Fire Department officials.