A fire erupted on Sunday afternoon in McHenry, Illinois, causing significant damage to two beloved businesses and injuring a firefighter in the process.

The local community is rallying around a cherished bakery and pet store that were affected by the blaze. Thanks to the swift actions of a former firefighter who happened to be nearby, no serious injuries were reported.

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On a typical night, Riverside Drive in McHenry might seem unremarkable, but earlier on Sunday, dramatic scenes unfolded as smoke and flames engulfed the rooftop of Riverside Bake Shop. The fire ignited shortly after noon, devastating much of this long-standing establishment.

“It’s a staple for the locals. Known for their cookies and chocolate donuts, the family has owned it for ages. It’s heartbreaking,” expressed Cindy O’Connor, a McHenry resident.

The firefighters faced challenging conditions due to the cold and ice, necessitating assistance from several neighboring fire departments to combat the five-alarm blaze.

But even before first responders arrived, others set out to help. Retired firefighter Billy Andersen was driving past when he saw the smoke.

“I really wasn’t thinking of anything else other than just going in there to help see if there was anybody there,” Andersen said.

And so, he did, heading in through the back of the bakery.

“I tested the door for heat and then opened it, and then it was floor-to-ceiling smoke. I yelled in there to see if there was anybody in there, and two gentlemen… They were coughing really heavy. I said, ‘Get low,’ and helped them out a little bit and I asked if there was anybody else in there, and they said yes, and it was an older gentleman. He was standing straight up and walking. I went about 10 to 15 feet and kind of guided him to the door,” Andersen said.

And while the fire does appear to have started in the bakery, next door, Reese’s Barkery and Pawtique also suffered damage. Co-owner Zachary Giles vowed to find a way to continue serving the pet shop’s customers.

“Whatever we need to do, we are going to make it happen,” Giles said. “We are already in talks with another local business with some space that we can bring some food, drop it off there and act as a mini store in the meantime until we can get everything up and running again.”

As for the Riverside Bake Shop, its owners issued a statement on social media, saying, “We will provide updates when we learn more information. Thank you to the local community who has voiced your support. We are so grateful for the community we have built and can lean on throughout this difficult time.”

One firefighter suffered minor injuries. Officials said he was taken to the hospital for evaluation but has since been released.