Overview
- An early-morning explosion and fire at a three‑story condo building in Des Plaines on May 6 produced heavy flames and smoke that trapped residents and required ladder rescues from balconies.
- After about two months of investigation, Des Plaines fire and police officials concluded the blaze was deliberately set and announced a news conference to release their findings.
- Investigators say K9 detection and lab testing found an accelerant and that gasoline was poured through hallways, common areas and stairwells, with the fire originating on the building's third floor.
- Officials identified a person of interest based on surveillance and forensic evidence and said the suspect later died of injuries suffered in the fire, though authorities have not released full evidence or announced any arrest.
- Dozens of residents remain displaced, the building is uninhabitable, the Red Cross is assisting survivors, and some victims have filed lawsuits alleging a gas issue before the blast.