CHICAGO — A fatal blaze in Chicago’s Austin neighborhood early Thursday morning claimed four lives and injured several others, prompting a full arson investigation. Victims include a pregnant 32‑year‑old mother, her 5‑year‑old son, the mother’s 28‑year‑old sister, and a longtime community journalist who was the editor of The Voice newspaper.
Chaos Unfolds at 2 a.m.
The fire erupted shortly before 2 a.m. in a three-story mixed-use building at 5200 W. North Avenue, initially prompting a 2-11 alarm that escalated to a 3-11 as flames enveloped the third floor. Over 140 firefighters responded using eight ladders to rescue trapped residents from windows and stairwells.
At least six people were rescued, with three later dying at hospitals. A fourth body was recovered on Friday morning after crews re-entered rubble previously inaccessible.
Identity of the Victims
Family members identified the victims as:
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Regina Henry, 32, three months pregnant
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Her 5‑year‑old son, Jacian (Jayceon) Henry
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Regina’s sister, Destiny Henry, 28, who died after re-entering the blaze to find her child
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Brad Cummings, 76, the editor of The Voice, a vital community newspaper in Austin
Another child, aged 4, remains hospitalized with serious injuries.
Signs Pointing to Arson
Evidence suggests foul play:
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Neighbors reported gunfire immediately before the fire.
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Responders found a bullet casing outside the building.
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Ald. Emma Mitts shared that the blaze may have begun after a domestic dispute, allegedly involving a Molotov cocktail thrown into the building.
The Chicago Fire Department, ATF, and state fire marshals continue combing through third-floor rubble, using heavy machinery and canines to collect forensic evidence.
Community Impact and Reaction
The fire has displaced more than two dozen residents, with the Red Cross providing emergency shelter. Community members described frantic escape scenes—residents jumping from windows and evacuating down flaming stairwells.
Ald. Mitts and local advocates mourned Brad Cummings, emphasizing his role in amplifying West Side voices over decades.
What’s Next
This tragedy—potentially set off by domestic violence—highlights the vulnerability of apartment dwellers and the need for stronger safeguards. The investigation remains active, with no arrests yet . The community and officials await findings to hold anyone responsible.
Do you have information about this fire or ideas for urban fire safety reform? Visit ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com to share your insights and support the rebuilding community.
