Person killed in house fire in Elk Grove Village

ELK GROVE VILLAGE, Illinois – One person was killed in a fire early Friday in Elk Grove Village.

According to the Elk Grove Village Fire Chief, someone from the Wilshire and Birchwood area called 911 around midnight to report the fire.

Within five minutes of the initial alarm, firefighters arrived at the home in the 900 block of Wilshire Avenue.

The police officers were the first to get there and tried to enter the house, even breaking down the door despite knowing that someone was probably inside.

According to reports, at least one neighbor also tried to help as best he could.

Fire officials said conditions were simply too difficult for safe entry.

“The situation was very intense. There was a strong fire coming from the front windows,” said Fire Chief Richard Mikel. “The police were the first to arrive. They tried to enter the building, but due to the intense flames and smoke, they were unable to do so.”

When the fire department arrived, they immediately extinguished the fire with water, entered the house and quickly found the victim, who the officers believe to be a woman in her sixties.

Mikel said that despite efforts at the scene and on the way to the hospital, they were unable to save her.

“We rescued her and started rescue operations, but unfortunately she could not be rescued from the fire,” he said.

According to the fire department, the victim apparently lived alone. During the search, no other pets or people were found.

“It’s very sad. Whenever someone is injured or killed in a fire, it’s very sad,” Mikel said.

They are working to confirm their identities and notify their relatives.

Forensic investigators have since been at the hospital and are on site to help determine the cause and clarify the circumstances.

There are currently no suspicious indications, but the cause is still being investigated.

The state fire safety officer is also here, as are the local police and fire investigators.