Rags 'Spontaneously Ignite' At Bar, Bar Owner's Accused Killer Jailed

Authorities say the fire was ruled accidental, while the suspect in the bar owner's slaying remains in custody.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Rags stored at a bar in Illinois spontaneously ignited, causing a fire that was ruled accidental by authorities. Meanwhile, the man accused of killing the bar's owner has been ordered to remain in custody until his trial.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the importance of proper storage and handling of flammable materials, as well as the ongoing legal proceedings surrounding the tragic death of the bar owner.

The details

Investigators determined that the rags at the bar were stored in a way that allowed heat to build up as the oils oxidized, leading to the spontaneous ignition without an external flame. The fire was ruled accidental. Separately, the man accused of killing the bar owner, Julius E. Burkes, Jr., appeared in court and was ordered to remain in custody until his trial.

  • The fire occurred on February 12, 2026.
  • Burkes appeared in court on February 12, 2026, where a judge ordered him to remain in custody.

The players

Julius E. Burkes, Jr.

The man accused of killing the bar owner, who was ordered to remain in custody until his trial.

Sydney

A 10-year-old Jack Russell Terrier that was attacked three weeks ago in the family's yard in unincorporated Mokena.

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The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of fire safety and proper storage of flammable materials, as well as the ongoing legal process surrounding the tragic death of the bar owner.