72-year-old woman killed in Gurnee house fire

A 72-year-old woman found dead in her burning Gurnee home Tuesday has been positively identified but is not being named as investigators continue to search for relatives.

Preliminary results of an autopsy Wednesday showed her death was consistent with smoke inhalation, according to the Lake County Coroner's Office. Toxicology testing, including carbon monoxide levels, are pending.

A search for family members continues as Gurnee police and fire departments with local fire investigators and the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal investigate.

Gurnee firefighters responding to a house fire Tuesday night on the 1600 block of Dulcetto Lane found the resident dead inside.

Police responding to multiple 911 calls about 9:11 p.m. had been advised a vehicle belonging to the resident was in the driveway and the individual was believed to be inside.

They found smoke and flames at the rear entrance and tried to get inside but front and rear entrances were blocked by what appeared to be furniture and household items, according to a news release from the Gurnee Fire Department.

Firefighters arrived moments later but had to attack the fire through windows as access to the interior was delayed due to extreme hoarding throughout the home. Multiple agencies assisted. A cause or damage estimate has not been given.