Stephenson County, IL (January 16, 2026) – A devastating house fire west of Cedarville claimed one life and left another person unaccounted for Wednesday morning, according to the Stephenson County Sheriff’s Office. The fire broke out around 9:51 a.m. on Scheider Rd, drawing emergency crews to the scene following reports of visible flames and potential occupants trapped inside.
Upon arrival, responders from the Cedarville Fire Department and Leamon’s Ambulance found the home fully engulfed. Officials quickly determined that fire conditions were unsurvivable, prompting immediate suppression efforts to contain and extinguish the flames.
Once the fire was brought under control, crews located the remains of one deceased individual inside the residence. Authorities are currently withholding the victim’s identity pending family notification. Meanwhile, one other occupant remains unaccounted for, and search efforts are ongoing.
The cause of the fire has not yet been determined. The Stephenson County Sheriff’s Office is working alongside the Illinois State Fire Marshal’s Office to investigate the incident.
We extend our deepest sympathies to all those affected by this tragic event.
