St. Charles firefighters rescue two residents from apartment fire

St. Charles firefighters rescued two residents from a burning apartment building late Saturday night.

Firefighters responding at 11:43 p.m. to reports of a structure fire at 1742 Cumberland Drive were advised that one person was trapped on a balcony while another resident in a wheelchair was inside a bedroom, according to the St. Charles Fire Department. When they arrived at 11:47 p.m., they found heavy fire conditions on the second floor of the apartment and a resident hanging over the balcony, officials said.

Using a portable ladder, firefighters were able to pull both residents from the apartment. One man was taken to Delnor Hospital in Geneva for treatment, while they other was evaluated at the scene by paramedics and declined further medical care.

Fire Chief Joe Schelstreet said the man taken to Delnor remained at the hospital later Sunday for observation, but was conscious and speaking.

Firefighters were able to extinguish the fire in approximately 30 minutes and there were no further injuries to firefighters or residents, officials said.

The cause of the fire, which caused an estimated $100,000 in damage and left the apartment uninhabitable, is under investigation, authorities said. Apartment complex management is working with residents regarding temporary housing arrangements.

The St. Charles Fire Department was assisted by the Geneva, Batavia, West Chicago and South Elgin fire departments. The Elburn and Fermi Lab fire departments provided coverage while St. Charles units were committed to the fire.