Abandoned house fire under investigation in Danville

DANVILLE, Ill. (WAND) - An abandoned house in Danville is a total loss after an early-morning fire over the weekend.

The Danville Fire Department was called to a reported house fire on South Virginia Avenue early Saturday morning. Crews arrived around 12:05 a.m. after having to reroute because a train was blocking access to the scene.

When firefighters arrived, they found heavy flames coming from the two-story home. Due to the intensity of the fire and the home’s close proximity to nearby houses, crews initially focused on preventing the flames from spreading.

Firefighters worked for several hours to contain the fire, but due to significant damage and structural instability, the incident commander called for an excavator to safely demolish what remained of the building.

Crews continued suppression efforts during the demolition, putting out hidden fire and remaining hot spots as the structure was taken down.

The fire was declared under control, and fire units remained on scene until about 3:58 a.m.

No civilian or firefighter injuries were reported. Fire officials said the home was a total loss, with estimated damage around $15,000.

Officials said there were no active gas, electric or water services connected to the property at the time of the fire. No smoke alarms were found inside the structure.

The Danville Fire Department was assisted by Ameren Illinois, the Danville Police Department and AMT Ambulance Service.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Capt. Ryan Allison with the Danville Fire Department at 217-431-2350.