Major house fire on busy East Rockton Road
"Unfortunately, two dogs did not make it out of the structure."
UPDATE: Harlem-Roscoe Fire Chief John Bergeron told us they received a call about 7:30 p.m. They found "heavy fire showing" at the two story residence. An initial life safety check determined that the homeowner was out of the house, but dogs were possibly still inside. They began an aggressive attack on the fire and used the Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS) to summon help from surrounding fire departments, including Cherry Valley, Northwest, and Boone. One person was taken to a local hospital for observation. "Unfortunately, two dogs did not make it out of the structure," says Chief Bergeron. Harlem-Roscoe Fire and the State Fire Marshall are investigating the incident.
A serious house fire on East Rockton Road developed Tuesday evening, Jan. 7, 2025. Residents commented that the home belongs to a well known breeder of German Shepherds. It is next to Taco Bell, across the street from Blain's Farm & Fleet.
The Rockton Police Department sent an advisory shortly after 8 p.m. saying, "AVOID the 4600 block of East Rockton Road... due to a current traffic issue pertaining to a residential structure fire. All westbound traffic in the 4600 block of E. Rockton Rd. will require a detour. Suggested alternate routes are Dorr Road or Illinois Route 251... Some roads closed."
One resident said, "I’ve never seen so many red & blues & they are still coming. Prayers that everyone is ok." Multiple fire units were dispatched.
Rockton Police did not have an official statement as of 9:30 p.m. Harlem-Roscoe Fire and the State Fire Marshall are investigating the incident.
