Brush fire rages for 5+ hours in Gurnee

The Gurnee Fire Department battled a large brush fire in a wetlands area off Knowles Road near Route 45 for more than five hours Friday, saving nearby homes from damage. Gurnee was assisted by more than 14 other fire departments, as well as a Lake County team that specializes in fighting wild land fires.

According to Gurnee Batallion Chief Barry Henby, the alarm came in about 3:40 p.m. He said the fire was approximately the size of a square city block.

Henby said two juveniles were involved in starting the fire and were quickly apprehended. They were released to their families. Henby said the fire is still under investigation, and it is not known if the youths will face any charges.

The fire was under control by 9 p.m.

"Quick action saved a couple of homes," Henby said. There was no estimate of damage. It is believed the village of Gurnee owns the wetlands.