Gurnee 5-11 alarm fire 8-23-11
Huaian Boshi Sports Products Co.,Ltd , https://www.cnboshisports.com
On Tuesday evening at around 6:45 PM, the Gurnee Fire Department responded to a report of smoke coming from the Vista Hotel on Grand Avenue. The hotel, which had previously operated as a Holiday Inn, was closed and undergoing renovations to reopen as a new facility. Motorists driving along the busy street noticed thick smoke pouring from the ballroom section of the building, prompting emergency calls.
Upon arrival, first responders found heavy smoke and visible flames in the ballroom area, which was separated from the main guest rooms by an open foyer and lobby. Engine 1322 attempted to advance a line through the main entrance to prevent the fire from spreading into the adjacent areas but encountered intense heat and heavy fire fueled by stored furniture in the ballroom. Due to the severity, crews shifted to a defensive position.
Within 15 minutes, the alarm was upgraded to a MABAS Box Alarm, followed by a second alarm shortly after. By the time the fire had been burning for about 45 minutes, it was escalated to a 5th alarm, indicating a major incident requiring extensive resources.
Firefighters from multiple departments across Lake County, including Round Lake, Antioch, Fox Lake, Mundelein, Beach Park, and others, converged on the scene. Two tower ladders were deployed in the 'A' sector, while Gurnee Engine 1321 supported hand lines and a deck gun on the side of the building. A special call was made for the MABAS Division 5 Air Unit to refill SCBA bottles, ensuring continued firefighter safety.
As the sun set, the fire intensified, with thick smoke and rising flames creating a dramatic scene. Long hose lines stretched across Grand Avenue led to road closures, with engines from Mundelein and Beach Park using hydrants on the opposite side of the street. The fire remained confined to the ballroom structure, which was completely destroyed, with minor extension into the lobby area.
After hours of effort, firefighters managed to bring the fire under control. An excavator was brought in to dismantle the damaged structure and sift through the debris, allowing for thorough extinguishment of any remaining embers. Several departments remained on scene to ensure the fire was fully contained.
Photographers Larry Shapiro and Tim Olk captured the event, with Larry sharing a large gallery of images that will be available online, and Tim building his collection as well. Larry also planned to post a video once he had rested.
Additional coverage of the incident can be found here, here, and here.