Roughly 100 displaced after massive fire at Mount Prospect apartment complex: officials

MOUNT PROSPECT, Ill. (WLS) -- About 100 people were displaced after a large fire at an apartment complex in the north suburbs Monday night, fire officials said.

Mount Prospect fire crews responded about 6:45 p.m. to the 1800-block of West Palm Drive for a reported fire at the Orion Parkview Apartments, fire officials said.

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Heavy smoke and fire were seen coming from the building.

One firefighter suffered a minor injury, and was treated at the scene.

One tenant had to be rescued from a balcony when he ran back into the burning structure for personal belongings, fire officials said.

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Over 30 fire and EMS units from surrounding communities responded to the blaze.

It was under control by about 3:15 a.m. Tuesday.

About 100 people were displaced, but the Red Cross and village of Mount Prospect Human Services Department helped find them places to stay, fire officials said.

Based on initial reports, the fire likely started in the attic, but its cause remains under investigation.

The structure needs to be assessed by building engineers before any personnel can enter. It appears to be a total loss.

Out of respect for the privacy of the residents at Orion Parkview, the village asked that community members refrain from bringing donations to the scene or offering to assist on-site.

Those who would like to help can do the following:

• Bring donations of non-perishables to the Mount Prospect Food Pantry at Village Hall (weekdays, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m). Donation bins are in the lobby and in the Human Services Department on the second floor. Visit the village's website to see the full list of items.


• Donate gift cards from local retailers, like Walmart, and local restaurants so displaced residents can purchase essentials and hot meals. Gift cards can be brought to the Human Services Department on the second floor of Village Hall (weekdays, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m).


• Donate to the Red Cross through their website.

For any questions or assistance, call the Human Services Department at 847-870-5680.