UPDATED 11:48 A.M.
PEORIA HEIGHTS, Ill. — A pair of homes in Peoria Heights went up in flames Monday night, and the fire has claimed one life.
The State Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the cause of the fire reported in the area of E. Lake and N. Atlantic Avenues, just after 8 p.m.
The Peoria Heights Fire Department said first responders found heavy fire showing on the front of one of the homes, and a house next door was also on fire.
Peoria County Coroner Jamie Harwood says one person died in the fire, burned beyond recognition, and he’s working to try and positively identify the victim.
Meanwhile, one home suffered extensive damage, while the other home only suffered exterior damage.
Peoria, West Peoria, Dunlap, and Chillicothe Fire Departments assisted Peoria Heights crews at the scene, while the Limestone Fire Department staffed the Peoria Heights station to handle other calls.
