There was a fire at the old DePaul Hospital/closed Northview Village on December 2, and the Fire Department described the damage as “severe.” This is a major development, as right after the failed nursing home closed, security seemed to be fairly tight, as at least one man was arrested for burglary within a week or so.

But that is clearly not the case now. Reports indicated the property is being infiltrated by people trying to stay warm in the bitter cold, and with out of state, disinterested owners, it is not a surprise. Plywood is easy to break. Thankfully, the Fire Department made quick work of the flames, but what if it had not been noticed sooner? There is also a still functioning retirement home to the west, and I worry about the safety of those residents if there is a massive conflagration.