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Richmond Today
By the People, for the People
Residents Displaced After Fire Damages Home Near McHenry
Numerous fire departments responded to the early morning blaze that left the home uninhabitable.
Published on Feb. 14, 2026
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Residents were left homeless after an overnight fire broke out and caused significant damage to a home near McHenry, Illinois early Saturday morning. The fire began in the attic of the attached garage and spread to the main living area, resulting in the home being deemed uninhabitable until repairs can be made. No injuries were reported to residents or firefighters, and several dogs on the property were unharmed.
Why it matters
House fires can have devastating impacts on families, leaving them without a place to live and potentially causing the loss of personal belongings and valuables. This incident highlights the importance of fire safety and the need for quick emergency response to minimize damage and protect lives.
The details
Firefighters from the McHenry Township Fire Protection District and several surrounding departments responded around 1:52 a.m. to the 2500 block of North Freedom Drive in unincorporated McHenry. They found flames showing from the attic of the attached garage and were able to contain the fire to that area, though there was smoke and water damage throughout the main living space. Sheriff's deputies had already escorted three people out of the home by the time firefighters arrived.
- The fire was reported around 1:52 a.m. on Saturday, February 14, 2026.
The players
McHenry Township Fire Protection District
The local fire department that responded to the blaze and led the firefighting efforts.
McHenry County Sheriff's Office
The local law enforcement agency that assisted in evacuating residents from the home before firefighters arrived.
What’s next
The cause of the fire is under investigation by the McHenry Township Fire Protection District.
The takeaway
This incident underscores the importance of having working smoke detectors, practicing home fire safety, and ensuring a quick emergency response to minimize damage and protect lives when a fire does occur.


