No names released yet in fatal Cairo fire

Though few details have been released, the tragedy has some searching for answers in the latest string of fires in the town of 3,600.

City clerk Lorrie Hesselrode has lived in Cairo since 1961. She said in a small community like Cairo the entire town embraces family and friends of the victims who perished Monday.

"It's such a tragedy for the community and the family who has to live without their loved ones," Hesselrode said. "If I knew the cause behind this and other fires I'd be a genie.

"In a community like this you have many, many family members who need our love and support," she said. "It takes a true spirit to pull through this."

Trooper Bridget Rice of the Illinois State Police said the state fire marshal, Cairo Police Department and state police are investigating the fire that occurred in the 600 block of 37th Street in Cairo. Alexander County Coroner Willie Bigham says the fire happened shortly before noon Monday. The cause of the fire is unknown.