On Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at approximately 7:57 a.m., the Bloomington Fire Department and Bloomington Police Department responded to a structure fire in the 1300 block of West Elm Street.
Upon arrival, firefighters observed heavy smoke and fire conditions coming from the attic of a single-story, single-family residence. Initial crews began extinguishment efforts while simultaneously initiating a search for a reported missing occupant.
During the search, firefighters located an adult male inside the residence. He was pronounced deceased at the scene by the McLean County Coroner’s Office. An autopsy is pending, and his identity is being withheld pending positive identification and notification of next of kin.
The residence sustained extensive damage and is considered a total loss.
This incident remains under investigation by the Bloomington Fire Department, Bloomington Police Department, and the McLean County Coroner’s Office.
Ameren, Nicor, and the City’s Building Development Division also responded to the scene.
Bloomington Police Chief Jamal Simington stated, “Bloomington Police Department specialized detectives are working with Bloomington Fire Department arson investigators to determine the origin of the fire. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the impacted family of the deceased.”
Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the Bloomington Police Department at 309-820-8888.
