4-Year-Old Dies, Woman, Infant Airlifted After Aurora Fire

AURORA, IL — A fire in an Aurora townhome claimed the life of a four-year-old girl and led to a 5-month old and 25-year-old female being airlifted to Loyola Hospital Wednesday afternoon, according to Aurora Fire Department. The fire broke out in a four-unit townhome in the 1800 block of Carnation Court just before 2 p.m., fire officials said.

In a press release, Fire Marshal Javan Cross said the fire department could see a "large plume of smoke" when they were several blocks away and en route to the scene. Upon arrival, they encountered two residents who had escaped the two-story townhome and were told that another occupant was trapped inside.

Heavy flames and smoke forced firefighters to battle the blaze from the outside of the home before they were able to enter, Cross said. The four-year-old girl was found deceased at the scene.

Aurora Fire Department officials said a 5-month old and 25-year-old female were first taken to a local hospital and treated for burns and smoke inhalation before they were transported to Loyola.

Cross said 43 firefighters fought the blaze, which caused $500,000 in damage and left the home uninhabitable. Preliminary investigation indicates that the fire started in a first floor living room.

The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.

This is a developing story; check back for updates.