Early today, a fire ignited at a storage shed near Cafe Brauer in Lincoln Park, injuring two people, including a Chicago firefighter. According to the Chicago Sun-Times, the incident occurred around 4:20 a.m. on Stockton Drive. The Chicago Fire Department reported that propane tanks within the shed were involved in the blaze. Spokesperson Larry Langford said, "The fire was in the shed where the propane tanks are stored," and added, "The tanks were on fire."
A hazardous materials alarm was immediately called to address the flammable nature of the fire. Firefighters were able to quickly extinguish the flames. One firefighter suffered a "very minor" injury and was transported to Rush University Medical Center for treatment. Another individual, identified as a 46-year-old man, experienced a medical issue during the incident and was taken to Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center in fair condition. The Chicago Police Department confirmed that neither injury was related to burns. "The whole thing is still under investigation," Langford revealed, indicating that the cause of the fire is unknown at this stage.
CBS News Chicago reported that the fire broke outside Cafe Brauer, positioned near the popular Lincoln Park Zoo. Onlookers saw flames erupting from the propane storage location as first responders arrived on the scene. The mentioned firefighter was taken to Illinois Masonic Hospital with minor injuries. The incident created a stir among early morning passersby and emergency services quickly secured the area.
As both the community and firefighting personnel reckon with the early morning events, details about the fire remain scant. Updates will be provided as to more becomes known, reflecting the ongoing efforts of investigators to determine the cause.
