2 Arrested in Illinois Arson Incidents, Including Rockford High-Rise Fire

The Rockford Fire Department responded to a fire at a high-rise building located at 1000 Chamberlain Street on Thursday morning (10/17) around 3:30 am.

According to a press release from Rockford Fire, the blaze quickly escalated to a 3rd Alarm, requiring additional resources at the scene, while five residents and one firefighter were transported to the hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.

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Two residents of the high-rise jumped from the building while the remaining occupants were rescued by Rockford Fire Department personnel, according to the report.

Arson Arrest Made in High-Rise Fire

Following an investigation, Rockford Fire Investigators determined the fire was the result of arson. David B. Marshall, a 46-year-old Rockford resident, was arrested and charged with starting the fire.

Marshall is currently being held at the Winnebago County Jail. Investigators credit the collaborative efforts of the Rockford Fire Investigators and the Rockford Police Department for the successful arrest.

Arson Suspect Tied to Earlier Fire

In addition to the high-rise fire, Marshall has also been charged with setting another structure fire at 414 E. State St. on October 6, 2024.

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The building houses Wired Cafe, along with residential apartments above. Firefighters extinguished the flames, and no injuries were reported, though the business sustained significant damage.

After further investigation, evidence linked Marshall to both fires.

Separate Arson Arrest for Dumpster Fires

Later on October 17, at around 9:31 p.m., Rockford Fire and Police Departments responded to reports of two dumpster fires behind 215 7th St. Investigators concluded that the fires were intentionally set.

A 35-year-old male, Edward Sudzilosky, was arrested at the scene. Authorities are now reviewing additional information related to other recent fires in the area.

This story is continuing to develop and will be updated as more information becomes available.