Cicero officials say a body was found after crews put down an apartment fire started by an explosion Saturday afternoon.
Police and firefighters responded to an explosion at a building in the 2200 block of Central Avenue at 5 p.m. When they arrived they found that flames had spread to neighboring buildings, Cicero officials said. A total of 11 apartment units were damaged — many with broken windows and doors. The displaced residents are being assisted by the Red Cross and village officials to find shelter.
The person who was found dead appeared to have died in the explosion, officials said. The person has not been identified, but officials said family members thought the person was outside the apartment when the explosion occurred.
Cicero President Larry Dominick ordered a donation drive be created for the residents affected. The effort will be coordinated by the Cicero Department of General Assistance and the Cicero Clergy Committee.