Duplex Fire In Wheaton

On Wednesday, April 20 at approximately 4 p.m., MCFRS units were dispatched for a reported house fire in the 12000 block of Berry Street in Wheaton. Multiple 911 calls were received indicating a working fire with possible explosions.

First arriving units reported heavy fire involving both units of a two-story duplex type home and a second alarm was quickly dispatched. All occupants escaped uninjured prior to arrival and were accounted for.

Firefighters initiated a transitional fire attack and the bulk of fire was knocked down. Crews spent a few hours mopping up hot spots in and around the duplex to include homes on both sides and the rear of the duplex.

Fire Investigators were called to the scene and conducted an origin and cause investigation. The origin and cause investigation determined the fire originated on the rear porch of 12028 Berry Street. At this time the cause of the fire is listed as undetermined.

A total of five residences, two sheds and fencing were damaged by flame and/or radiant heat. The two homes, 12028 and 12030, suffered significant charring and damage while three other residences suffered mostly radiant heat damage to vinyl siding on their exteriors.

Approximately 95 firefighters were on the scene of this two alarm fire. Damages are estimated at
$500,000.00 to the structures and $200,000.00 to contents. There were no injuries sustained by the residents or firefighters. A total of three adults have been displaced as a result of the fire.

Crews will be returning to the Berry Street neighborhood this evening at approximately 6:30 p.m. offering to check smoke alarms, provide safety tips and answer any questions residents might have.