On the evening of April 9, 2025, a fire erupted in the kitchen of Wilma’s Famous BBQ on Wabash Avenue, sending plumes of smoke through Chicago’s bustling Loop. The blaze triggered a massive emergency response, disrupted CTA services, and left downtown shrouded in a smoky haze. Here’s everything you need to know about this dramatic incident that gripped Jewelers Row.
Fire Breaks Out at Wilma’s Famous BBQ
A Kitchen Blaze Turns Chaotic
The fire ignited in the kitchen of Wilma’s Famous BBQ, located on the second floor of 17 N. Wabash Ave., a historic spot in Chicago’s Jewelers Row. What started as a small flame quickly escalated, filling the area with thick smoke. The Chicago Fire Department swiftly called a still-and-box alarm, mobilizing extra equipment and personnel to tackle the growing crisis. Sirens echoed through the Loop as firefighters battled the flames, a sound that reverberated off skyscrapers and alerted residents and workers alike.
Emergency Response in Full Force
The response was immediate and robust. Firefighters worked tirelessly to contain the blaze, checking a handful of individuals for smoke inhalation. Thankfully, no severe injuries were reported, but the intensity of the operation underscored the potential danger. The scent of smoke wafted blocks away, even reaching the CBS Chicago newsroom at 22 W. Washington St., a stark reminder of the fire’s reach.
Impact on Downtown Chicago
CTA Delays and Street Disruptions
The fire didn’t just affect the restaurant—it snarled transit across the Loop. CTA officials reported delays on the Brown, Pink, Green, and Orange lines as smoke and emergency activity disrupted normal operations. Commuters faced unexpected hurdles during the evening rush, with parts of Wabash Avenue cordoned off to accommodate firefighting efforts. The incident highlighted the vulnerability of Chicago’s dense urban core to such emergencies.
Smoke Permeates Jewelers Row
Jewelers Row, known for its glittering storefronts and historic charm, took on an eerie atmosphere as smoke blanketed the area. Businesses and pedestrians grappled with the unexpected haze, a jarring contrast to the district’s usual vibrancy. The fire’s proximity to key downtown landmarks amplified its impact, drawing attention from across the city.
Investigation Underway
Authorities have yet to determine the cause of the fire, with the Chicago Fire Department launching a thorough investigation. Was it a cooking mishap, an equipment failure, or something else? Answers remain elusive as officials sift through the aftermath. For now, Wilma’s Famous BBQ stands as a focal point of concern—and curiosity—for Chicagoans.
A City on Edge After the Flames
The fire at Wilma’s Famous BBQ on April 9, 2025, was more than a headline—it was a jolt to downtown Chicago’s rhythm. While the flames are extinguished, the incident leaves lingering questions about safety and resilience in the Loop. As the city awaits findings from the investigation, one thing is clear: this smoky scare won’t soon be forgotten. How will Chicago rebound from this fiery disruption? Only time will tell.
