Evanston 3-11 on 3-15-11 updated

This image captures the devastation following the fire on Oak Street in Evanston, taken from the street level. The upper floors and the sloped roof, combined with the building’s setback from the road, made it difficult for firefighters to deploy their elevated master stream effectively. Tim Olk photo

The fire occurred in the jurisdiction of Evanston Truck 22. The unit returned the next morning to check for any rekindling inside the structure. This truck is scheduled for replacement soon with a new Pierce TDA model. Tim Olk photo

Evanston Engine 24 was back at the scene the next morning. The image shows the ongoing efforts of the department to manage the aftermath of the fire. Tim Olk photo

This shot, taken from an adjacent building, reveals the complex architecture that firefighters had to navigate during the response. The layout posed significant challenges for access and control. Tim Olk photo

The fire building was dangerously close to an adjacent structure to the south, limiting the fire department's access by about 25%. This proximity also allowed smoke to spread into the neighboring building. Additionally, scaffolding behind the fire site further hindered firefighter movement. Tim Olk photo

This final elevated view of the fire building highlights the full extent of the damage. It serves as a powerful visual reminder of the destruction caused by the blaze. Tim Olk photo