A devastating fire broke out in a high-rise apartment building on Chicago’s South Side on Wednesday, leaving one person dead and six others injured. The Chicago Fire Department received reports of the fire on the 18th floor of the building in the Kenwood neighborhood shortly after 10 a.m. and immediately responded to the scene.
Multiple Floors Engulfed in Flames
Video footage from outside the building showed bright orange flames on multiple floors as firefighters battled the blaze. At least nine levels of the building appeared to have been damaged, with windows blown out and burn marks around the window frames.
One Fatality Confirmed in Chicago Fire
Sophia King, the alderman for the area, confirmed that one person had died as a result of the fire. The victim was found in the apartment where fire officials believe the fire began. Five of the six people taken to hospitals were in good condition, but one older woman was being closely monitored. One firefighter was also being assessed for injuries at the scene but was reported to be in good condition.
Many Residents are Older People
Alderman King also stated that many of the building’s residents are older people. Barbara Joiner, a 69-year-old resident of the building, stood outside with other neighbors as snow continued to fall. Joiner, who acts as a caretaker for another woman who lives in the portion of the building affected by the fire, was anxiously trying to reach her.
Chicago Fire Under Control
Despite the tragic outcome, Alderman King reassured residents that the situation was under control. “I will tell you when I first walked up, I was aghast and my heart sunk,” she said. “But after talking to leadership, first responders, they have the situation under control.”
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. Our thoughts and condolences go out to the victims and their families during this difficult time.