Small Elgin fire forces Larkin Center evacuation

A minor fire inside Elgin’s Larkin Center forced the building’s evacuation Thursday afternoon, but investigators said the residence remains livable.

Firefighters responded to a fire alarm at the Larkin Center, 60 N. Melrose Ave., at 3:22 p.m. and called for backup after noticing smoke coming from the front of the building, fire officials said.

The center, a home and treatment center for youth facing emotional and behavioral challenges, can house up to 50 youths, according to its website.

Fire investigators said an exhaust fan inside what was once a pottery room may have caused the fire.

The fire caused approximately $3,000 in damage, officials said.