On April 2, 2026, at approximately 9:00 p.m., the McHenry Township Fire Protection District
(MTFPD) responded to a reported residential structural collapse in the 4200 block of W. South
St. in McHenry. Crews arrived within four minutes and found a collapsed foundation in the rear
of a single-family dwelling.
A family of five, including two young children, safely escaped the home as crews arrived on the
scene. Crews searched the unaffected areas of the house to confirm that there were no other
occupants or pets.
Nicor, Com Ed, and the City of McHenry Building Department were requested to the scene to
isolate utilities and prevent additional damage to the structure.
Firefighters secured the homeowner’s fence to prevent entry into the collapse area, and the home
remains uninhabitable and unstable.
The severe weather and significant rainfall appear to be contributing factors to the structural
failure. The Building Department will continue its damage investigation once the storms have
cleared the area.
The MTFPD requested the American Red Cross to the scene to provide the family with
temporary shelter and access to necessities.