'Suspicious' Fires Break Out in Skokie

Two fires broke out late Friday night in the 8200 and 8500 blocks of Keeler Avenue, according to a Skokie Fire Department official.

"We are deeming them suspicious at this time, but we can't release any additional information as they're being investigated with Skokie Police," Fire Captain Jeff Hoeflich told Skokie Patch.

The first fire occurred in the 8500 block of Keeler at 11:59 p.m., according to Hoeflich, and involved the exterior of a home. Two fire engines, as well as several trucks and squad cars responded to the scene, Hoeflich added. Though not at the scene, Hoeflich estimates the flame was put out in roughly 10 minutes.

Following the first incident, a second fire broke out in the 8200 block of Keeler Avenue when a van parked in an alleyway caught on fire, which spread to an attached garage. Police also accompanied fire crews to the scene.

When asked if the fires were related, Hoeflich said he couldn't comment as they are both still under investigation.

No injuries were reported in either fire.

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