(WGTD)---An iconic landmark just south of the state line in Wadsworth was heavily damaged by fire late Tuesday afternoon.
About a-quarter of the six-story Gold Pyramid House was "ruined," according to Gurnee Fire Dept. Battalion Chief David Douglass.
An 80 year-old, wheelchair-bound resident of the structure was briefly trapped, but was rescued by painters who’d been painting the exterior of the building, Douglass said Tuesday night.
One firefighter suffered a knee injury and three others were treated for smoke inhalation. The residents who lived in the home lost a dog.
The pyramid-shaped house, complete with a moat, a replica of King Tut’s tomb and a huge statue of Ramses II out front, was built in 1977 by Jim and Linda Onan. At various times, tourists were allowed in, and the building has been rented out over the years for various functions.
A dollar damage estimate wasn’t immediately available.
The cause is under investigation. It’s unclear whether the blaze began on the exterior or interior of the building, Douglass said.
Some 15 fire departments responded to the scene with between 45 and 50 firefighters.
Two firefighters issued a “May Day” after briefly getting lost inside the building. A “smoke explosion” also hampered firefighting efforts, he said.
The fire was difficult to fight because of the style of construction. On the plus side, the moat served as a water source, according to Douglass.
-0-
