WILMINGTON, ILLINOIS – Early Monday, a lightning strike near the Kankakee River became the unexpected ignition for a fire at 1927 Lakewood Dr. Smoke rose rapidly from the two-story home, calling for an urgent response from the Wilmington Fire Protection District.
Firefighters traced the fire’s origin to the basement, which had already seared its way to the first floor. Although the two residents escaped harm, the aftermath leaves them displaced.
Investigations by Wilmington and Elwood Fire Districts confirmed the fire’s connection to a splintered tree, struck by lightning, by the riverbank. Assistance poured in from various regional fire agencies.
