Residential Structure in Mattoon Destroyed by Fire

Fire left a residential structure in Mattoon uninhabitable today. No injuries were reported.

Mattoon firefghters were called to 701 South 17th Street just after 5am. The structure was a two-story residence that had been converted into two apartments. Heavy fire was coming from the first floor.

The fire was brought under control within 20 minutes. Mattoon Fire Chief Jeff Hilligoss said the construction was of balloon frame, which alllowed fire to quickly progress to the second floor and attic.

The Red Cross was contacted and provided assistance to the four occupants of the two apartments that were displaced due to this fire, as the apartments are considered uninhabitable.

All fire units cleared the scene at 7:49am.