Libertyville blaze destroys condo units

A Libertyville boy was able to escape a roaring fire Wednesday that destroyed two attached condo units, but three of the family's pets were killed in the blaze, according to fire officials.

Seven area fire departments assisted Libertyville firefighters at the two-unit residence on the 300 block of Brainerd Avenue after fire responders found the building engulfed in flames.

A young boy was the only one inside when the fire started about 3:50 p.m. but was able to escape unharmed, said Libertyville Fire Department Assistant Chief Brian Conner.

Fire officials said the two-story building was at a total loss, but a damage estimate was not available Wednesday.

It took firefighters just under an hour to bring the blaze under control, but by the time the flames were extinguished a family's dog, cat and bird had all died, Conner said.

The Red Cross was at the scene early Wednesday evening helping the affected families find temporary housing.

The cause of the fire remained under investigation Wednesday night, Conner said.

Six area fire departments assisted in covering vacated Libertyville fire stations.