Homeowner Affected by Arson Thankful to Firefighters

It is imperative to make the community of Libertyville aware of the professionalism of Fire Chief Rich Carani and the entire ’s dedication in response to the devastating chain of events that occurred on the early morning hours of March 24.

Our Fire and Police Departments responded to unusual circumstances as the result of the fire at my home and then another soon afterward on Cook Street. Chief Carani and his firefighters worked diligently to extinguish the fire in our home and responding to the next call soon afterward regarding then another incident just blocks away.

This department should be praised for their work both in responding to the fire and the professionalism in their investigations. It is veray unusual that this level of event occurs in our community and our citizens should clearly feel that they are safe with the firefighters we have to guard this community.

If it weren't for their professional hard work and determination, things certainly could have been different for all effected. So this is why I encourage you to send a message to Libertyville and praise our Chief Carani and his department.

In addition, please give praise to the police investigation at the local level. They, too, have proven again to be well-trained professionals who responded to crisis and brought comfort and justice to our community.

The police investigation began when the first officer arrived at my burning home at 3 a.m. They assessed our family and made us feel safe during the entire event. Within days, our community was put to ease. 

In addition, I know the victims involved were all emotionally affected at different levels.

Respectfully, I want to encourage the entire community to reach out to the Kowals with unconditional support. The pain and confusion in which they harbor is something that no parent should ever experience.  No parent signs up for such circumstances nor should they have to experience such grief.

I am continually reminded of the still photo of Pope John Paul II sitting in a straight chair directly across from his attempted assassin. There is no caption, just a powerful message of forgiveness.  

The support we have had from this community has been overwhelming to say the least. Family, friends and acquaintances have all reached out in so many ways to our family. Sometimes with just a hug, a well wish or prayers.

We have a fiduciary responsibility as community to step up in support of ALL effected. We need to continue to pray that those suffering emotionally find resolution and peace. No one should ever feel alone in their own heads not to mention this community.

A smile, a hug, a prayer are all examples of what can effectively let the Kowal's and others effected know we are with them in this journey.

Good to all will ultimately come from this experience. Let's lift all effected with continued support and prayers!

Cheers to Libertyville,

Jimmy Quigley