Arson Determined in Harding Street Condominium Fire
Published on July 23, 2026
Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Arson Determined in Harding Street Condominium Fire
Investigation Identifies Person of Interest
DES PLAINES, IL—The Des Plaines Fire Department and Des Plaines Police Department, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Illinois State Fire Marshal’s Office, determined that the May 6, 2026, fire at 1279 Harding Street was caused by arson.
Arson investigators confirmed the presence of an accelerant through canine detection and laboratory analysis. Evidence indicates gasoline was used as the accelerant, and investigators determined it was poured throughout the hallways, common areas, and stairwells.
The stairwells collapsed before firefighters arrived, trapping residents in the building. Firefighters, upon arrival, encountered intense fire conditions and had to rescue residents using ground ladders to the balconies.
The area of origin was on the third floor, and the cause of ignition remains under investigation.
The investigation identified Taner Teymur Bayramli, a 36-year-old resident of the building’s third floor, as the person of interest based on forensic and video evidence. Bayramli’s personal items tested positive for the presence of accelerant, and video showed him purchasing a container and filling it with gasoline days before the fire at a nearby gas station. A subsequent search warrant during the investigation resulted in the Police Department finding that Bayramli moved his personal items and keepsakes, including passports, from his condominium into his vehicle.
Bayramli died on May 21 from injuries sustained during the fire. Based on all available evidence, investigators believe he acted alone. Had Bayramli survived, investigators would have referred the findings to the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office for appropriate criminal charges.
A total of 15 people were evaluated at the scene, and seven were transported to area hospitals. Three patients were initially in intensive care, including Bayramli. No minors sustained serious injuries. The building remains uninhabitable, and the American Red Cross assisted displaced residents.
Investigators do not believe Nicor Gas or building management had any responsibility for the incident, and no natural gas odor was reported to the City before the fire. The building did not have code violations that contributed to the fire, and no ongoing threat to the public exists.
Additional information, including final reports and any releasable footage, will be made available upon completion of the investigation.
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Contact:
Brad Goodman
Director of Communications
bgoodman@desplainesil.gov
847-391-6122