LAKEVIEW — A fire that tore through a Lakeview apartment building Sunday displaced at least three families, according to police and fire department officials.
The fire started about 4 a.m. Sunday on the second-floor balcony of a three-story building in the 800 block of West Bradley Avenue, Fire Department spokesman Larry Langford said.
The fire started on the rear porch and progressed into the building, destroying at least two apartments, Langford said. He said an “open flame” was responsible but did not offer more specifics. Police also said officials could not pinpoint how the fire started, but it is not being investigated as arson.
At least 11 people were displaced, according to police.
Police said no people were injured in the fire, but neighbors said at least four pets were killed.
Kelly Cutler, a Lakeview resident who moderates a private neighborhood news group on Facebook, said she’s fundraising to book hotel rooms for the families affected by the fire.
Cutler is also helping collect care packages, food, clothing, money and other donations to support the families.
“They’ve lost pretty much everything,” Cutler said.
Cutler said people who want to donate to support the families can contact her via email at kellycutler@icloud.com.
Jake Wittich is a Report for America corps member covering Lakeview, Lincoln Park and LGBTQ communities across the city for Block Club Chicago.
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