Lontray Clark to face murder, arson charges in court for Austin, Chicago fire that killed 4 at North and Laramie avenues
Share this @internewscast.com

CHICAGO (WLS) — The suspect in a deadly fire in Chicago’s Austin neighborhood is due in court on Saturday.

Chicago police, aided by officials from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, apprehended 23-year-old Lontray Clark in Springfield this week. Authorities allege he deliberately set the apartment fire that resulted in four fatalities on June 26.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

Clark faces charges of first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, arson, and additional offenses related to the blaze on West North and North Laramie avenues, which necessitated a substantial emergency response.

Last month, family members shared with ABC7 the identities of some victims, including 27-year-old Destiny Henry, 32-year-old Gina Brown Henry, and her 5-year-old son, Jayceon.

Community members identified the man killed as Brad Cummings. He was the editor of The Austin Voice, founded in 1985.

Reverend George Smith Jr., who was related to three of the victims, said he is struggling to understand how someone could do this.

“We’re grateful, but, however, that still cannot replace the lives that were lost of this senseless crime,” Smith said.

READ MORE | Father speaks out after son killed in NW Side stabbing, fire; ex-wife charged

Six other people were rescued from the building, and some of them were hospitalized.

The American Red Cross says the large fire displaced more than two dozen people.

Clark is set to appear at the Leighton Criminal Courthouse on Saturday.

INTERACTIVE SAFETY TRACKER Track crime and safety in your neighborhood

Copyright © 2025 WLS-TV. All Rights Reserved.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like
Parents of 2 US citizens demand return of their sons’ bodies and all deceased hostages held by Hamas in Gaza

Families of Two U.S. Citizens Urge for the Repatriation of Their Sons’ Bodies and All Deceased Hostages Held by Hamas in Gaza

Two American citizens remained among the hostages killed by Hamas as of…

Remembering Sam Rivers: Limp Bizkit Bassist’s Impactful Legacy Lives On at 48

Sam Rivers, the bassist and a founding member of the iconic band…
On is sued over running shoe's allegedly "loud, embarrassing" squeak

Running Shoe Company Faces Lawsuit Over Annoying Squeaky Noise

The popular running shoe brand, On, is facing legal action from several…
New York's Young Republican chapter disbanded after racist and violent messages exposed in group chat

New York’s Young Republican Group Shuts Down Amid Scandal Over Offensive Chat Messages

The New York Young Republican chapter faces ongoing turmoil as a crucial…
Camp Pendleton: I-5 freeway closed due to Marines anniversary event in Southern California

Camp Pendleton: I-5 Freeway Closure Announced for Marines Anniversary Celebration in Southern California

In a significant disruption, a 17-mile portion of the I-5 freeway in…
With no takers yet, White House meets with colleges still weighing an agreement with Trump

White House Seeks College Partners as Trump Agreement Awaits Approval

WASHINGTON (AP) — On Friday, five universities deliberating over President Donald Trump’s…
Young Republicans' Leaked Chats Show How Personal Feuds Are Increasingly Being Weaponized

Leaked Chats Expose Rising Trend of Personal Feuds Among Young Republicans

If you’ve only skimmed the recent headlines, you might assume that the…
'No Kings' protests against Pres. Donald Trump bring a street party vibe to cities nationwide

Nationwide ‘No Kings’ Protests Against President Trump Emerge as Vibrant Street Gatherings

WASHINGTON — In a spirited show of dissent against the current administration,…
M.C.I. Foods recalls 91,585 pounds of burritos for Listeria risk

Urgent Recall: M.C.I. Foods Pulls 91,585 Pounds of Burritos Due to Listeria Contamination Risk

The recall affects three distinct brands: El Mas Fino, Los Cabos, and…
Why do people wear inflatable costumes to 'No Kings' protests?

Unpacking the Inflatable Costume Phenomenon: Why Protesters Choose Air-Filled Attire at ‘No Kings’ Demonstrations

The strategy first emerged in Portland, Oregon, amid protests against U.S. Immigration…
78-year-old man missing in Oregon may have fallen in hole; police ask for help

Urgent Search: Oregon Police Seek Public’s Help to Find Missing 78-Year-Old Man Feared Fallen in Hole

In a bid to locate a missing elderly resident, Oregon authorities are…
'No Kings' protests take place in Jacksonville, Florida

Jacksonville Protests Ignite: ‘No Kings’ Movement Challenges Authority

Protesters took to the streets in Jacksonville on Saturday, showcasing an array…