Chicago fire: 4 dead, including teenager, in townhouse fire on Paulina Avenue in Rogers Park, officials say

CHICAGO (WLS) — Four family members were killed in a townhouse fire in Rogers Park Thursday morning, and neighbors and relatives are remembering the victims.

The CFD said the fire broke out around 4:14 a.m. at a townhouse in the 7000 block of North Paulina Avenue.

ABC7 Chicago is now broadcast 24/7. Click here to watch

“It was absolutely horrible. The fire was everywhere,” said neighbor Salman Ansari.

Neighbors heard screams shortly after 4 a.m. Thursday as firefighters rushed to enter the home.

“I could smell the smoke, I woke up my family and we went outside. We could see the big fire, but we couldn’t do anything,” said neighbor Frank Adu.

The youngest victim was a 13-year-old boy. The fire also killed his 24-year-old brother, their 48-year-old mother and their 69-year-old grandmother.

“She gave us a little more spirit, you know, when we delivered,” said delivery driver Kenyetta Jones.

Jones delivered to the family for years and said the 69-year-old always greeted him with a smile.

“It was a special house to come to because I knew I was going to receive the salvation that I received,” Jones said.

Featured

The victims’ family said she was loved and active in the community. The 48-year-old mother taught at the nearby Catholic church and her two sons enjoyed playing and going to the movies together.

The family had lived in the house since 2005.

Family members confirmed that smoke detectors and a fire extinguisher were working inside. Authorities are currently investigating the cause.

“These fires are terrible. It’s the worst kind of tragedy,” said 49th Ward Alderwoman Maria Hadden.

Members of the Rogers Park community said they are committed to supporting the family.

“We’re very committed to seeing what’s going on and trying to find ways. So I firmly believe that we as a community will try to find a way to help the family if it’s necessary,” Jones said.

The Red Cross was on site, connecting displaced residents with resources. Family members are working to create a GoFundMe.