2 Young Mothers Dead, 4 Families Lose Everything In Fire At Vernon Hills Apartment Complex

VERNON HILLS, IL — Several young families are left picking up the pieces after a fire tore through their northwest suburban apartment complex over the weekend, leaving them reeling from a loss of property and, in some cases, a loss of life.

The blaze occurred early Sunday morning in the 900 block of South Court of Shorewood in Vernon Hills, according to authorities. Two young mothers, 33-year-old Camille Lozano and 39-year-old Polly Jensen, died in connection with the fire, which also rendered the building uninhabitable.

“Camille leaves in this world a son who has a heart of gold and because of his mom, a vision for a future that’s within reach,” her loved ones wrote in a GoFundMe to support her child. “We now need more help than ever to ensure that his future is secure.”

Lozano had a generous spirit, the GoFundMe said. She and her son volunteered at food banks and soup kitchens, and she loved to cook for her parents.

Jensen leaves behind two daughters, ages 12 and 15, who were spending the weekend with their father when the fire broke out.

“There are no words to describe what they are going through, and how much their lives changed today,” said a GoFundMe to support the children, which described Jensen as “an extraordinarily strong person.”

“Beyond losing their mother, who was their primary caregiver, they lost everything they owned and cherished.”

Also seeking support in the aftermath of the tragedy are Drew and Melissa Younger, and their baby, William.

“Drew and Melissa were able to escape with William, a set of keys, their phones and Drew's laptop,” said a GoFundMe for the new parents. “We are all so happy that they are safe and uninjured; however, they have lost practically everything else — furniture, clothing, kitchen items, baby items, etc.”

A fourth family, a woman and two young children, are mourning the death of their cat, Sky, who died in the fire, and navigating the loss of their belongings, according to a GoFundMe.

“Anything donated will help them rebuild what they lost, anything is appreciated,” the fundraiser said.

Editor's Note: Patch is a GoFundMe promotional partner.