Illinois House Fire Victim Dies After Being Airlifted to Rockford Hospital

An investigation is now underway after a woman in northern Illinois died from smoke inhalation injuries from a house fire over the weekend.

Fatal Outcome After Northern Illinois House Fire

According to a press release from the Winnebago County Coroner's Office, a woman died after suffering injuries in a residential house fire that happened on Saturday morning (3/7) in Somonauk, Illinois, about 65 miles southeast of Rockford in DeKalb County.

Authorities say 63-year-old Jeanene Wasson was airlifted to a Rockford hospital, but died on Sunday evening (3/8).

Early Morning Fire Response in DeKalb County

Preliminary findings show the fire was reported around 6:45 am on March 7 in the 200 block of South Depot Street in the village of Somonauk.

Deputies with the DeKalb County Sheriff's Office and crews from the Somonauk Fire Department were dispatched to the resident after reports of a structure fire.

Get our free mobile app

According to the report, when first responders arrived on the scene, smoke was observed coming from the home. Two occupants inside the residence were treated by firefighters at the scene and later transported to the hospital for additional medical care.

Watson was taken to a Rockford hospital for advanced treatment.

Investigation Underway

Despite medical efforts, Watson was pronounced dead at 6:45 pm on March, according to the press release. Officials say the preliminary cause of death is smoke inhalation resulting from the residential house fire.

The Winnebago County Coroner's Office and the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal are continuing a joint investigation to determine the exact cause and circumstances surrounding the fire.

This story is continuing to develop and will be updated as more information is released.