Morgan Park man found fatally shot after fire; homicide investigators search for missing car

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Homicide investigators are looking into a deadly fire and explosion in Chicago's Morgan Park neighborhood.

A man was found dead after a "suspicious" fire at his home in the 10800-block of South Morgan Street early Monday morning.

The Cook County medical examiner said the victim was shot in the head. Police said in a community alert that the fire was intentionally set.

Firefighters responded to the report of an explosion at the South Side home just before 1 a.m. Monday and encountered heavy flames and smoke. The force of the blast blew out the windows and left a huge hole in the single-story structure.

The victim's body was found in the back of the house. In the hours after the fire, neighbors said they hadn't yet heard from the homeowner, a 47-year-old city sanitation worker.

Police said his car was stolen. They are looking for a black 2004 Buick LeSabre with the plate number V617710.

Anyone with information about that car's whereabouts should call Area South detectives at (312) 747-8271.

PHOTOS: House explosion, fire in Morgan Park neighborhood