A 64-year-old man died Thursday night from injuries he suffered in an explosion at an Oak Park building where he lived, officials said.

       The Cook County medical examiner’s office identified the victim as David Rechs of 221 S. Maple Ave. He was pronounced dead about 8:30 p.m. Thursday at Loyola University Medical Center in Maywood, officials said.

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       A fire broke out at an apartment building in Oak Park on Wednesday and left Rechs in critical condition. Officials said the fire displaced about a dozen residents, and could have been caused by a natural gas explosion.

       The building contained six units. Over the weekend, the residents were scheduled to be escorted by the Oak Park Fire Department to retrieve some of their belongings. It was not clear Tuesday if and when the residents would be able to return.

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       An investigation conducted by state and local fire officials determined a smoke explosion started inside the building and caused a fire.

       Rechs’ cause of death was pending, according to the medical examiner’s office.

       Originally Published: Aug 01, 2023 at 12:05 pm