Rockford Firefighters Battle Overnight Blaze That Displaces Family of 6

A late-night house fire on the city's west side has displaced a half dozen Rockford residents.

Smoke Smelled Hours Before the Fire Ignites

According to the Rockford Fire Department press release, the fire was reported just after midnight on Tuesday (4/15) at 809 Ferguson Street when occupants noticed heavy smoke and flames outside their windows.

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One of the residents originally arrived home around 9 pm and noticed a faint burning smell but found nothing unusual and went to bed around 10:30 pm, according to the RFD report.

Flames Tear Through Home as Crews Respond

Emergency crews arrived to find the home's front porch completely engulfed in flames, with fire rapidly spreading up interior walls and into the attic, according to the report from Rockford Fire.

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A second engine was called in to assist, bringing the total to 23 firefighters on scene. It took over an hour to bring the fire under control, Rockford Fire Department officials said.

Investigation Ongoing, Red Cross Assists Displaced Family

While the fire on Ferguson Street is still under investigation, Rockford Fire believes it to be unintentional at this time.

All 6 residents, including pets, were able to exit the home safely before RFD crews arrived, and the American Red Cross provided emergency shelter for four of the displaced individuals.

The Rockford Fire Department confirms that no civilians, firefighters, or pets were injured during the response. The extent of the structural damage has not yet been released to the public.