Published on February 20, 2026 4:45 pm
Last Updated on February 20, 2026 4:45 pm
Mattoon Fire Department was dispatched at 09:09 A.M to a possible basement fire located at 616 Edgar.
Crews arrived on scene at 09:12 A.M to find a 2-story single-family residence with light smoke coming from the rear of the home with all occupants out of the structure advising that the fire was in the basement. Residents advised that 1 dog was still believed to be inside the residence.
Crews quickly deployed a hose line and made entry into the residence locating the basement stairs, where they encountered heavier smoke coming from the basement. Other crews began a search of the structure, while another crew deployed a second hose line to the exterior cellar door. Once this door was opened, heavy smoke was present. Crews were able to quickly get this fire knocked down. This fire was considered under control at 09:20 A.M.
A fire department Investigator then began a cause and origin investigation. The cause of this fire was determined to be accidental and electrical in nature. Fire and water damage was limited to
the basement, while the rest of the structure sustained smoke damage. 6 residents were displaced due to this fire and are receiving assistance from the American Red Cross. No injuries were reported at this incident. The dog finally came out of hiding and was safely removed from the structure.
The Mattoon Fire Department was assisted at this scene by: Coles/Moultrie 911 (CECOM), Mattoon Police, Charleston Fire, Mattoon Public Works, Ameren gas and electric, and the American Red Cross.
