NASHVILLE, IL — As recovery efforts continue following Wednesday night’s fire at the Village Apartments in Nashville, The Washington County Emergency Management Agency would like to provide the public and media with the following updates:
“Facility Status:
A professional cleaning service is scheduled to inspect the building tomorrow to ensure it is safe for re-entry. The goal is to reopen the East Wing of the complex by tomorrow, pending inspection results. The West Wing will remain closed for an extended period, as it sustained the most significant fire and water damage during suppression efforts.
Shelter and Assistance:
The emergency shelter remains open and staffed. We’re grateful for the community support being provided to impacted residents: Kroger generously donated water, bread, cheese, lunch meat, chips, and condiments. Meals on Wheels of Okawville/Washington County Senior Services is assisting with food support. Volunteers from Trinity Lutheran Church are also offering on-site assistance and support.
Youth Heroes:
We have received credible reports from Nashville Police and multiple residents that two teenage boys were among the first to respond — calling 911 and making several trips up and down stairways to help evacuate neighbors. Out of respect for their age, names will not be released (until permission has been given), however we fully support recognizing their heroic actions and will be sharing this information with our state partners in the hope that their bravery is formally acknowledged.
How to Help:
Anyone wishing to provide assistance to impacted residents — whether through donations, services, or other forms of support — is encouraged to contact the Washington County EMA office at 618-327-4800 ext. 345.
We continue to be inspired by the outpouring of support, compassion, and collaboration we’ve seen throughout the past 24 hrs. We’ll share additional updates as they become available.
-Darrah Sabo
Deputy Director – Washington County IL EMA – OHS
Deputy Clerk – Washington County IL Zoning/Ethics/Safety/Planning
160 N West Court St, Nashville IL 62263
618-327-4800 ext 345″