A 10-year-old boy with aspirations of playing in the NBA died early Monday morning in a fire at his family’s home in Chicago’s Washington Heights neighborhood. London Woodard was found inside the house on the 10400 block of South Green Street after flames broke out just before 3:30 a.m., according to the Chicago Fire Department. He was transported to Roseland Hospital but was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.

London’s 18-year-old brother, who has cerebral palsy and related respiratory issues, was also inside the residence and was taken to Little Company of Mary Hospital in Evergreen Park in critical condition. He was later moved to Loyola University Medical Center for further treatment, officials said. Their parents escaped the fire without injury.

Authorities are investigating the cause of the blaze, which family members say was likely electrical in origin. Fire crews were able to extinguish the fire by approximately 3:50 a.m.

London was remembered by relatives as an outgoing and joyful child with a deep love for basketball and video games. His uncle, Robert Harris Jr., described him as always laughing and playing. His grandfather, Robert Harris Sr., said London had recently scored 15 points in a local basketball game at the Pullman Community Center and often competed with older players due to his skill level.

“He was a star, everyone was looking for him to go somewhere,” Harris Sr. said, noting London’s talent drew admiration from peers. Harris Sr. also spoke of London’s close relationship with his older brother and his dedication to supporting his family. London’s dream was to make it to the NBA so he could help care for his brother.

London was also close to his cousin, Robert Harris III. The two were often inseparable—sharing late-night video game sessions and sports fandom despite supporting different football teams. While London excelled in basketball, his cousin was more focused on baseball, and they exchanged skills and advice over the years.

“He was a brother to me and always will be,” Harris III said.

The family is grappling with the sudden loss as fire officials continue their investigation into the incident. The Chicago Fire Department has not released additional details pending the outcome of the inquiry.