From Steve Redick’s on-the-scene report at the Box Alarm fire that broke out at 52 Madison Street in Oak Park last Wednesday night, November 21st, 2018.
I was there when the first calls started coming in, and it was clear this wasn’t going to be your average fire. The flames were intense, and you could see the glow from blocks away. I’ve been covering emergencies for years now, but something about this one felt different—more urgent, more chaotic.
As soon as I arrived, I saw Westchester FD trucks already hard at work. Their engines roared as they pumped water onto the inferno, trying their best to contain the spread. It was impressive how quickly they mobilized, but the fire seemed relentless, spreading faster than anyone anticipated.
Over by North Riverside FD, things looked equally intense. Their engine stood tall amidst the chaos, with firefighters working nonstop to get the situation under control. The elevated master streams were doing their part, spraying massive jets of water high into the air to reach the heart of the blaze.
Meanwhile, over in Cicero, FD Truck 2 arrived to lend support. Their presence added another layer of determination to the firefighting efforts. And let’s not forget Maywood FD Engine 506, which also joined the fray, contributing its own share of resources to battle the flames.
Of course, no story about this fire would be complete without mentioning the stalwart efforts of the Oak Park FD. Their tower ladders stretched skyward, providing crucial access points for firefighters to douse the fire from above. There were multiple engines from Oak Park too, each one playing a vital role in the operation. I snapped photos of these machines in action, capturing moments where every second counted.
One image that particularly stands out is of an Oak Park FD fire engine positioned strategically near the burning building. The dedication etched on the faces of those firefighters spoke volumes about their commitment to protecting lives and property. Another shot shows their tower ladder extending upward, creating an almost surreal contrast against the darkened sky filled with smoke.
Even though the scene was tense, there was a sense of camaraderie among all the departments involved. Each team worked together seamlessly, knowing that their combined efforts were essential for putting out such a fierce fire. Watching them in action reminded me why I love documenting these kinds of events—they’re not just about destruction; they’re about resilience and unity.
By the time I left the scene late that evening, the fire had finally begun to subside, though the aftermath was still palpable. The streets were littered with equipment and remnants of what once stood tall. It was humbling to witness firsthand the dedication and skill required to handle situations like this.
Reflecting on the night, I’m struck by how fires like this highlight both the fragility and strength of communities. While disasters can tear things apart, they also bring people together in unexpected ways. For now, though, my focus remains on sharing these images so others can understand just how challenging yet inspiring this experience truly was.
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