A fire at a Target store in the Chicago area has resulted in $1.5 million in damages and led to the arrest of a suspect. The incident, which took place at a Target store on Mannheim Rd, saw Denny Ellis, 57, from Nevada, charged with aggravated arson. The fire broke out on a Thursday afternoon, prompting a response from at least 12 fire departments, including the Rosemont Public Safety Department.
Employees discovered the fire near the children and baby aisle and attempted to extinguish it before firefighters arrived at the scene. Fortunately, everyone inside the building was evacuated safely, except for one individual who required hospitalization. The fire caused significant damage to the store, with smoke and water damage affecting most of the building, resulting in a total loss of $1.5 million.
Following the fire, authorities were able to identify a suspect, Denny Ellis, through license plate tracking, leading to his arrest and subsequent booking into Cook County Jail on suspicion of arson. The store remains closed for cleanup and repairs, with police yet to determine the motive behind the arson attack.
The suspect is due in court in Rolling Meadows on Tuesday and is currently being held without bond. The Rosemont PSD has urged anyone impacted by the incident to reach out to their department for assistance. This alarming incident serves as a reminder of the importance of fire safety measures and quick responses in such emergencies.