Highland Park, Illinois – Two men were tragically found dead early Wednesday morning at the scene of a house fire in Highland Park, with the Lake County Coroner’s office revealing that both individuals had suffered multiple gunshot wounds.
Authorities responded to reports of a house fire on Park Avenue West around 3:50 a.m. According to officials, upon arrival, first responders discovered two adult men, believed to be brothers, outside the residence with what were described as “suspicious injuries.”
Despite efforts by firefighters to extinguish the fire, both men, identified as 63-year-old Marc Austwick from Lake Forest and 60-year-old John Austwick from Mundelein, were pronounced dead at the scene. Autopsies conducted by the Lake County Coroner’s office confirmed that the cause of death for both men was multiple gunshot wounds.
The incident, deemed as isolated by authorities, is currently under investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the deaths of the Austwick brothers and the cause of the fire. Officials have reassured the community that there is no known threat to residents at this time.
As the investigation continues, residents of Highland Park are left in shock and mourning over the tragic events that unfolded at the Park Avenue West residence. The tight-knit community is coming together to support one another during this difficult time, seeking answers and closure to the unsettling incident.
Neighbors and friends of the Austwick brothers have expressed disbelief and sorrow, recalling the men as respected members of the community. The loss of Marc and John Austwick has left a void in the hearts of many, who are struggling to come to terms with the sudden and violent end to their lives.
While questions remain unanswered, the community remains united in seeking justice for the Austwick brothers and closure for their grieving loved ones. More information is expected to be revealed as authorities delve deeper into the investigation, shedding light on the tragic events that have shaken the quiet town of Highland Park.