Three Suburban Chicago Homes Affected By Fire Following Explosion

A possible explosion, then raging flames destroyed a home and damaged two others in north suburban Northbrook. Firefighters responded to the scene in the 2500 block of Melanie Lane just after 6 a.m. Wednesday. Residents from all three home were seen fleeing without shoes or coats.“It’s amazing and we’re really thankful no one was killed or injured,” said Northbrook Fire Chief Andy Carlson. “It’s remarkable that people were OK and able to self-evacuate.” Neighbors reported hearing a loud explosion before the fire. People as far as a half a mile away reported hearing the blast.