Lake County coroner releases ID of Grayslake man killed in Sunday fire

Officials identified the 44-year-old man killed early Sunday when a fire broke out inside a Grayslake-area house as Thomas Morley.

Preliminary autopsy results indicate Morley’s death is consistent with smoke inhalation due to the fire. Toxicology testing is pending, a Lake County coroner’s report said.

The fire was reported shortly before 12:40 a.m. at a residence on the 17800 block of West Winnebago Drive. Deputies responding to the scene were met outside by the 63-year-old homeowner, who had escaped the fire but reported her son was still inside and attempting to get out, authorities said Sunday.

Deputies attempted to enter the home to find Morley, but the heavy smoke prevented them from entering, a Lake County sheriff’s office news release stated.

Firefighters arrived soon after and were able to enter the home with their protective gear, officials said. They located Morley unconscious and not breathing. Lifesaving measures were started, and Morley was transported to an area hospital, where he later was pronounced dead, authorities said.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.