Peoria, IL (September 8, 2026) – According to rescue units, a 70-year-old woman lost her life in a fire that broke out early Sunday, September 6, on the 11th floor of a high-rise apartment building in Peoria, where the fire occurred at the B’nai B’rith Apartments on West Sam J. Stone Avenue.
The call came in at about 6:10 a.m. the victim was taken to OSF HealthCare St. Francis Medical Center, where she was unresponsive, not breathing, and had no pulse. She was pronounced dead at the hospital at 6:59 p.m. The coroner said an autopsy was scheduled for Monday to help determine the cause of death.
At least one other person was taken to the hospital following the fire. No additional information about that person’s condition was provided.
Our sincere condolences go out to the victim’s family and loved ones.
What Should People Know About High-Rise Apartment Fires?
High-rise fires can create serious challenges because residents may be far from ground level when an emergency begins. Smoke can spread through hallways and other parts of a building, making visibility and breathing conditions difficult. Fire alarms, sprinklers, enclosed stairways, and emergency lighting can help residents respond more safely.
People living in high-rise buildings should know the location of emergency exits and understand the building’s evacuation procedures. If smoke or fire blocks a hallway, residents should avoid entering dangerous areas and follow established emergency instructions. Keeping hallways and stairways clear also helps people move through the building during an emergency.
