DES PLAINES — A deadly fire erupted in the early hours of Tuesday in a Des Plaines residential complex, leaving one person dead, while a second, unrelated fatal apartment fire occurred shortly after in unincorporated Cook County, authorities confirmed.
Early Morning Blaze in Des Plaines
Firefighters responded around 12:20 a.m. to a call reporting flames at an apartment in the 9800 block of Bianco Terrace in Des Plaines. According to WGN-TV, crews arrived to find the structure fully engulfed and quickly initiated a search-and-rescue operation.
During their sweep, firefighters discovered one individual unconscious due to smoke inhalation. Despite emergency efforts, the person could not be revived by paramedics at the scene. Their identity has not yet been made public as officials continue notifying next of kin.
Second Fatal Fire in Unincorporated Cook County
Around the same time, Cook County Sheriff’s deputies and firefighters were called to an apartment fire in unincorporated Cook County, just a few miles from the Des Plaines incident. There, they found a 60-year-old man dead near the back door of the apartment unit.
The Cook County Sheriff’s Office reported no other injuries in that incident. The State Fire Marshal’s office, as cited by ABC7 Chicago, has determined that the Cook County blaze was caused by careless disposal of smoking materials.
“There’s no indication at this time that the two fires are connected, but the proximity and timing raise concern and highlight fire safety awareness,” an official familiar with both investigations stated.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Caution
While the Des Plaines fire’s cause remains under investigation, the confirmed reason for the Cook County blaze has prompted officials to remind residents of the dangers of improperly discarded cigarettes or matches — especially during warmer months when such items can ignite quickly.
The tragedies have shaken residents in both communities. Neighbors of the Des Plaines victim told WGN-TV that the smell of smoke woke several people in the building, but the flames spread too fast for everyone to escape in time.
“We’re heartbroken. You never expect to lose someone like this, especially when it could’ve been prevented,” said one resident who declined to be named.
As investigations continue, both cases serve as solemn reminders of the importance of fire prevention. Authorities are urging families to check smoke detectors, develop evacuation plans, and avoid leaving smoking materials unattended.
Have you or someone in your community ever experienced a fire emergency? Share your story or safety tips in the comments to help others stay prepared.
