Highland Park, Illinois – Two men were tragically discovered dead at the site of a house fire in Highland Park in the early hours of Wednesday morning. The Lake County Coroner’s office determined that both individuals had succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds. This shocking incident unfolded as police and firefighters rushed to respond to reports of a house fire on Park Avenue West around 3:50 a.m.
When first responders arrived at the scene, they encountered two adult men, believed to be related, outside the house with what officials described as “suspicious injuries.” Despite efforts to save them, both men were pronounced dead on-site. The flames that engulfed the residence were promptly extinguished by the responding firefighters, who confirmed that there were no other victims within or outside the building.
The deceased were identified as 63-year-old Marc Austwick, a resident of Lake Forest, and his 60-year-old brother, John Austwick from Mundelein. Autopsies conducted by the Lake County Coroner’s office confirmed the grim cause of death for both men – multiple gunshot wounds. Authorities are currently investigating the deaths of the Austwick brothers, as well as the origin of the fire.
Officials have characterized the incident as isolated, stating that there is no apparent threat to the community. The community remains shaken by this tragic event, and neighbors express shock and disbelief over the violent deaths of the brothers. As the investigation unfolds, residents are coming together to support one another during this difficult time.
The City of Highland Park is reeling from this unexpected tragedy, with many hoping for answers and justice for the Austwick brothers. The local authorities are urging anyone with information related to the incident to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation. The community comes together in solidarity during this time of mourning, seeking closure and understanding in the wake of such a senseless loss of life.