Elgin Fire Department Concludes Tent City Fire Investigations

The Elgin Fire Department has completed its investigations into three fires that occurred at the "tent city" encampment on Dec. 4, Dec. 12 and Jan. 11. Officials have determined that the fires were unrelated and accidental, with no evidence of suspicious activity.

The first fire, on Dec. 4, originated from a homemade heating unit constructed from a metal drum used to burn wood. Combustible materials, including bedding, were either in close proximity to or directly contacting the heating unit, resulting in the accidental blaze.

On December 12, a second fire broke out at the encampment, also deemed accidental. Investigators found that propane-fueled heaters were placed too close to combustible materials. The extent of the fire damage left limited physical evidence of furniture and building materials. However, multiple propane tanks and attached heaters were discovered near the fire's point of origin.

The third fire, which occurred on January 11, was also accidental. Investigators traced the cause to a heating unit similar to the one used in the first fire. A mattress and other bedding materials were found near the heating barrel, which sparked the flames.

All three fires were determined to be accidental, with no signs of intentional ignition. The common factor in these incidents was the use of heating equipment near combustible materials.