On March 5, 2026, at approximately 11:50 a.m., the Effingham Fire Department responded to a reported vehicle fire under a carport at 505 E Gordon Ave. While en route, crews were advised that the vehicle was fully involved. Upon arrival, firefighters observed a vehicle well involved in fire beneath a carport attached to the residence, with fire extending into the structure.
Firefighters quickly established command and upgraded the incident to a working structure fire. Crews deployed a 1¾-inch attack line and initiated a transitional fire attack to quickly knock down the main body of fire. A second 1¾-inch hose line was deployed to protect exposures, including a residence located to the east at 507 E Gordon Ave.
Firefighters conducted primary and secondary searches of the residence, confirming that all occupants were safely out of the home and accounted for. Crews performed ventilation and overhaul operations to check for fire extension and ensure the fire was fully extinguished.
Damage was estimated at approximately $85,000. There were no injuries to occupants or responders. The cause has been ruled accidental, with the fire starting in the engine compartment of the vehicle.
The fire was brought under control in under 10 minutes. Crews remained on scene until approximately 1:21 PM, conducting overhaul and investigation.
This response was a coordinated effort involving several agencies, including Effingham City Dispatch, Effingham Police Department, Rural Med EMS, Ameren Electric, Ameren Gas, and fire departments from Teutopolis and Shumway.