Published on March 16, 2026 9:37 am
Last Updated on March 16, 2026 9:37 am
Two people are homeless after a house fire in Mattoon early Monday morning.
Mattoon firefighters were called to 7978 Old State Road at 4:10am for a fire with entrapment. Arriving crews found a single-story residence with heavy smoke coming from the front of the structure. Crews were advised by police officers that the residents had gotten out prior to the firefighters’ arrival.
Mattoon Fire Chief Jeff Hilligoss said command determined the fire was in the basement. Crews made it down into the basement and were able to quickly extinguish the fire. Additional crews were searching the structure for three cats and opening windows to ventilate the residence. The fire was under control within 10 minutes. The home sustained moderate smoke damage throughout the entire home. The basement sustained significant fire and water damage.
Hilligoss said the fire is still under investigation, but appears to be accidental in nature. The three cats in the structure died due to smoke inhalation. The American Red Cross was contacted and will be assisting the two displaced adults that lived in the house.
All Mattoon fire units cleared the scene at 6:15am. One occupant was evaluated at the scene by EMS. No injuries to firefighters were reported.
Mattoon firefighters were assisted at the scene by Coles/Moultrie 911, Mattoon police, Charleston fire, Mitchell-Jerdan Ambulance, Coles County Sheriff’s Office, Mattoon public works, Ameren gas and electric, and American Red Cross.
