Body Found in Debris of House Fire

HAWTHORN WOODS, Ill. (WLIP) — Authorities discovered a body Sunday while investigating a residential fire that destroyed a home.

The Lake Zurich Fire Department responded to reports of a structure fire in the 100 block of Rosewood Drive around 3:10 p.m. Saturday.

When firefighters arrived, they found the house engulfed in flames.

The body was found Sunday afternoon as investigators and excavation crews searched through debris and pumped water from the basement, according to police.

Officials believe the deceased was a family member who didn’t live at the residence.

The Lake County Coroner’s Office conducted an autopsy Tuesday.

Results are pending further studies, including toxicology tests and carbon monoxide levels.

Positive identification will be made through scientific examination, including dental records comparison, authorities said.

The Hawthorn Woods Police Department, Lake Zurich Fire Department, local fire investigators and the Illinois State Fire Marshal’s Office are investigating the incident.