Garbage Truck Fire - 28W600 block of Hickory Lane

 
By Member Bill Schultz
August 10, 2026
 

At approximately 2:44 p.m. on 8/7/26, the West Chicago Fire Protection District responded to the 28W600 block of Hickory Lane in unincorporated West Chicago for a report of downed power lines involving a garbage truck.

Upon arrival, crews found multiple utility poles and power lines down, with electrical lines still in contact with the vehicle. Arcing from the lines caused the garbage truck to catch fire. The driver was able to exit the vehicle without injury.

Firefighters determined the truck was powered by natural gas and positioned hose lines while waiting for confirmation that electrical power had been shut off. Once ComEd confirmed the power was off and the natural gas hazard had been addressed, crews extinguished the fire.

The scene was later turned over to Groot and DuPage County Police. Due to the extent of the damage to utility poles and power lines, electrical service in the area may be disrupted for an extended period while repairs are completed.

The West Chicago Fire Protection District would like to thank all responding personnel and assisting agencies for their coordinated response.