Excerpts from the NorthwestHerald.com:

The Harvard Police Department and Harvard Fire Protection District responded about 3:15 a.m. Thursday to 405 E. Blackman St. for a fire that began in the basement of the home.

A 10-year-old boy, 14-year-old girl, and 55-year-old woman escaped the fire and were uninjured. A 63-year-old man was found in the basement and declared dead on the scene.  The man was temporarily staying at the residence.

The Illinois State Fire Marshall is conducting an investigation into the cause of the fire, and said it appears to be accidental and attributed to careless smoking. The fire caused about $75,000 in damage and had little extension into other areas of the home.

Hebron and Capron Rescues, Marengo, Woodstock, McHenry, and Sharon fire departments also responded.

thanks Scott

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