This from Larry Shapiro:

The Prospect Heights FD was alerted to a house fire around 3AM today (Monday) at 1201 N. Stratford Road, off of Rand Road. While en route they were notified that a 14-year old boy was trapped inside and the other family members were outside. Several police officers attempted to search for the boy but were forced out by heavy fire conditions and smoke.

Arlington Heights Engine 2 was the first unit on-scene with heavy fire in the center of the house. The street is without hydrants and supply lines were dropped to an Arlington Heights street in one direction and to a shopping center across Rand Road at the other end. Water was a problem for a short time as Engine 2 experienced mechanical issues that prevented supplying the lines. Additional lines were supplied from Prospect Heights Tower 9.

A Box Alarm was requested along with several additional ambulances as the two adults from the house and three police officers required medical attention. One ambulance was held for a possible rescue of the missing boy.

It was determined that the boy was not at home and he was later found elsewhere. Two people were transported to the hospital.

firemen battle full-involved house fire at night

Larry Shapiro photo

Pierce Quantum fire engine at night fire scene

Larry Shapiro photo

fully engulfed house fire

Larry Shapiro photo

firemen cut through wall of house

Larry Shapiro photo

Arlington Heights fire chief at fire scene

Larry Shapiro photo

fire burns from a basement window well

Larry Shapiro photo

aftermath of house fire

Larry Shapiro photo

more photos are at shapirophotography.net and at firescenes.net