A 52-year-old woman has passed away following a house fire that broke out over the weekend on Chicago’s Northwest Side.
The blaze started Sunday morning in the 4700 block of North Kewanee Avenue, located in the Mayfair neighborhood.
Firefighters arrived at the scene to find the home engulfed in flames.
The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office identified the victim as Jennifer Klebba.
According to officials, she died on Monday from injuries sustained during the fire.
Friends are mourning the loss of Jennifer, described as a “colorful” and loyal soul.
One lifelong friend shared a touching tribute, recalling a bond that spanned decades.
“We bonded sophomore year of high school over New Kids On the Block. We had a million teenage sleepovers,” the friend shared. “She was funny, colorful, loved music and performing. She had a big heart and was always there for me, often when no one else was. We have been lifelong friends and now I have to say goodbye, way too soon. Jennifer Klebba, you will be missed.”
While the fire resulted in a tragic loss of life, emergency responders were able to save two cats from the residence.
Firefighters administered oxygen to the pets at the scene to treat smoke inhalation.
As of Tuesday, authorities have not released a specific cause for the fire.
Investigators are still working to determine how the blaze started and where it originated within the home.
