3 firefighters hurt after house fire on Chicago's Northwest Side; 1 remains hospitalized
CHICAGO (CBS) -- A firefighter is still recovering after battling a fire on the city's Northwest Side on Friday afternoon.
The fire led to a mayday call at the scene, in the 8300 block of West Balmoral Avenue near O'Hare International Airport. It was initially called in as a basement fire. Three firefighters were injured as a result.
One of the firefighters was taken to Loyola Medical Center by escort Friday evening in serious but stable condition. CFD did not identify him but said he's been a firefighter since the 1990s.
The other two were listed in fair condition and were doing "very well" the fire department said shortly before 6 p.m.
Chopper 2 and Kris Habermehl were over the scene. A basement fire, even in a residential building, could be very dangerous, according to Habermehl.
Neighbors described the chaos of the scene as firefighters battled the flames.
"When they opened the front door, I've never seen so much smoke in my life," said Jim Bruno. "Dark smoke, just unbelievable."
Video from the scene showed a firefighter apparently being treated for the effects of heat.
Officials say the firefighter is making steady improvements but remains in serious condition but stable condition.
Update. CFD member injured at Balmoral fire is making steady improvement at Loyola Medical Center. Condition remains serious but stable. (Langford)
— Chicago Fire Media (@CFDMedia) August 13, 2023
The other two firefighters have since been released from the hospital and are recovering at home.