Elevate your local knowledge

Sign up for the iNFOnews newsletter today!

Select Region

Selecting your primary region ensures you get the stories that matter to you first.

ATF agents join local probe into Chicago fire that killed 4

CHICAGO – Federal agents have joined Chicago police and fire investigators in trying to determine the cause of a suspicious fire that killed four, including three children.

The Cook County medical examiner’s office said Wednesday the youngest victim, 3-month-old Melanie Watson, died of injuries suffered when her father leaped with her from their burning third-floor apartment. Her death was ruled a homicide.

Officials say the autopsies of the two other children, ages 7 and 4, are complete but results are being withheld pending formal identification.

The death of the fourth victim, 56-year-old Kirk Johnson, was also ruled a homicide.

Officials say Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives agents joined the investigation after findings thought to pinpoint the cause of the blaze were inconclusive.

Chicago police say they’re questioning a person of interest.

News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Join the Conversation!

Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community?

Create a free account

The Associated Press

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world’s population sees AP journalism every day.

Related Articles