Investigators Reveal 'Likely' Cause Of Palatine Condo Fire

PALATINE, IL — As a number of residents of a condominium complex continue to recover from a March 19 fire that left 22 units uninhabitable, fire officials revealed the likely cause of the blaze. Palatine Deputy Fire Chief Anthony Lavacchi said Tuesday investigators have determined the fire was accidental and likely caused by improper disposal of smoking materials.

Damage estimates were still not available Tuesday. A number of GoFundMe campaigns have been set up for dozens of residents of the three-story Windhaven Condominium Complex, East Dundee Road.

The evening required 60 firefighters from multiple area departments and took more than three hours to bring under control. Eight engines, three ladder trucks and nine ambulances responded to the fire, along with nine command officers. No residents or firefighters were injured in the blaze.

The Palatine Fire Department is reminding residents to have working smoke detectors in their homes, whether a single-family dwelling, an apartment, or a condo. The department is also suggesting residents have an escape plan, practice it, and be prepared to use it in the event of any fire. In an emergency, do not delay exiting the home to search for pets or any other belongings.

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