According to a release from the Elgin Fire Department, on Sunday afternoon just after 4:00 p.m., members of the Elgin Fire Department responded to the 1100 block of Forest Drive for a report of a possible structure fire.
Responding fire companies arrived in approximately 4 minutes of and found heavy smoke and fire in the rear and attic of a single family home. Crews were able to extinguish the fire within 20 minutes of arrival using 3 hoselines.
Damage from the fire was extensive and initially estimated to exceed $300,000.
The occupant of the home was able to exit prior to the arrival of the Fire Department and was transported to the hospital for evaluation. Three cats were rescued from the home, although several others perished in the fire.
The Elgin Fire Department Fire Investigation Team is investigating the cause of the fire.
