Massive fire tears through Elgin encampment for people experiencing homelessness

ELGIN, Ill. (WLS) -- Elgin firefighters are battling a large blaze at an encampment for people experiencing homelessness Wednesday evening, the city said.

Elgin fire crews responded to the area of North State and Kimball streets just before 4:50 p.m. for a reported structure fire.

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When firefighters arrived, they found two to three structures completely engulfed in flames, but they were able to bring the fire under control, Elgin officials said.

The windy conditions and frigid temperatures outside certainly did not help firefighters as they battled flames for a couple hours.

No injuries have been reported, and a thorough search of the area is underway.

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There is now a community-wide effort to help those impacted.

"I was shocked and because it's so windy so I'm sure that fueled the flames," said Judy Whalen, and employee at Paul's Family Restaurant. "It's terrible those people are out there and it's a cold one today."

Paul's Family Restaurant is now collecting donations for those impacted by the fire.

Dozens of people experiencing homelessness are now displaced from that area where they usually kept their tents and belongings. That's why the restaurant and others in the community are rushing into action.

"People are very helpful. I think Elgin is a great city for that because everybody looks after each other," Whalen said.

Community member Jennifer Sullivan is also working to gather donations.

"I just wanted to help," Sullivan said. "I knew I had something that could maybe make a person warm and posted on my page. I've already got people messaging me things are gonna be dropped off here tomorrow... I'm gonna be dropping things off."

Video of the scene showed massive flames in the area.

It was not immediately clear how the fire started.

Efforts will continue Thursday near the Elgin library to help those in need.

Due to the fire's proximity to nearby railroad tracks, Metra train service through Elgin has been fully suspended until further notice.