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Fire Engulfs Alton Home in Overnight Blaze

1 year 7 months ago
ALTON — An overnight fire that broke out in the 1200 block of State Street left a home fully engulfed in flames, prompting a response from local firefighters and neighboring agencies. The Alton Fire Department received the call around 11 p.m. on Sunday, February 16, 2025, and battled the blaze into the early morning hours of Monday, February 17. Deputy Fire Chief Matt Fischer reported that the residence featured a walk-out basement. "When we got there, the fire was fully involved," Fischer said. He noted that firefighters faced additional challenges due to the terrain, as the homes in that area of State Street are situated on a downhill slope. The cold weather conditions further complicated the firefighting efforts. Fischer acknowledged the difficulties posed by the frigid temperatures, stating, "It was awfully cold. I thought the firefighters did a great job with the weather conditions." The Godfrey Fire Protection District was called in to assist, providing relief crews to

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St. Louis natives represented as prestigious Tuskegee Airmen

1 year 7 months ago
ST. LOUIS - The Tuskegee Airmen, a highly respected group during World War II, not only courageously served but also helped to pave the way for desegregation of the U.S. Armed Forces in the 1940's. The group consisted of America's first black military airmen, ground crew, and mechanics. Wendall Pruitt of St. Louis was a [...]
Blair Ledet

Breese Woman Dies After Fatal Crash Into Pond

1 year 7 months ago
CLINTON COUNTY — A 59-year-old woman from Breese died after her vehicle crashed into a pond in rural Clinton County. The incident occurred early Saturday, Feb. 15, 2025, near the 15000 block of Rod and Gun Road, just north of Breese. The victim - Susan K. Hilmes - was later pronounced deceased at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Breese. Steven A. Hilmes, 65, her husband, was treated at the hospital for injuries. According to the Clinton County Sheriff's Office, a 911 call reported that the car failed to make a turn at an intersection and subsequently entered the pond. The passenger in the vehicle was able to escape and made multiple attempts to rescue his wife by diving into the cold water; however, he was unsuccessful. The sheriff's office noted that the vehicle was found upside down, with only its rear wheels visible above the surface. After three unsuccessful attempts to save her, the passenger sought help at a nearby residence. Upon arrival, first responders discovered that

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Firefighters' Institute for Racial Equality starts EMT scholarship fund

1 year 7 months ago
The Firefighters Institute for Racial Equality (F.I.R.E.) Retirees has launched a scholarship fund named after Captain George Baker to support aspiring EMTs and Paramedics, with partnerships with the Northeast Ambulance and Fire Protection District and Forest Park Community College & Foundation.
Kelley Hoskins