Whitewater Times

A fire broke out in a multi-family apartment building at 1563 W. Wildwood Rd in Whitewater on the evening of October 1, 2025. According to Whitewater Fire/EMS, crews responded to a report of smoke at approximately 8:04 PM.

Engine 121 arrived within five minutes and initially saw no visible flames. However, firefighters later observed smoke coming from an interior door of one apartment. "An aggressive offensive attack was initiated, which limited fire damage to the bedroom of origin and prevented the fire from spreading throughout the apartment," according to Chief Kelly Freeman.

The investigation determined that electrical components in the bedroom, likely a power strip, caused the fire. The cause is not considered suspicious.

No injuries were reported among civilians or firefighters. One occupant was evaluated for smoke inhalation but did not require hospital transport. Only residents of the affected apartment were displaced.

Multiple agencies assisted on scene, including Lauderdale-LaGrange, Lakeside, and City of Delavan Fire Departments; Fort Atkinson Truck; Jefferson and Elkhorn Squads; Janesville Ambulance; chiefs from LaGrange, Jefferson, and Fort Atkinson; We Energies; and the City of Whitewater Police Department.

"An aggressive offensive attack was initiated, which limited fire damage to the bedroom of origin and prevented the fire from spreading throughout the apartment," said Chief Freeman.

The estimated loss was limited to personal belongings in the affected unit.