Four killed, including three children in deadly birthday party fire
By Jacob Hunziker, Taylor Hess
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LEBANON, Pennsylvania (WGAL) — Four people, including three children, were killed in a fire Sunday morning in Lebanon.
The victims include a one-year-old, a four-year-old, a 17-year-old and a 73-year-old.
Group was gathered for birthday party The fire started in the 800 block of Church Street around 8:40 a.m.
The Lebanon Fire Department arrived to find both the first and the second floors of the home fully engulfed in flames.
Firefighters were immediately aware that people were trapped inside of the building and the fire was upgraded to a second alarm, according to Lebanon Mayor Sherry Capello.
After rescuing three victims from inside of the home, conditions deteriorated, forcing crews to leave the home and fight the fire from the outside. The three victims were sent to Good Samaritan Hospital.
When conditions stabilized, firefighters reentered the home and recovered two additional victims.
According to Capello, ten people were inside the home for a birthday celebration.
“With deep regret, I must report that four victims have passed away, one remains in critical condition, and one is in stable condition. The remaining four occupants escaped with minor injures,” Capello said in a statement.
The identities of the victims will be released at a later time.
“On behalf of the City, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. Words cannot capture the depth of our sorrow for their loss. Our thoughts and prayers remain with all those impacted by this devastating event.”
Cause of fire Capello said the fire started from an electrical outlet in the first floor living room and has been ruled an accident.
The Pennsylvania State Police Fire Marshal’s Office is assisting with the investigation.
The Red Cross is assisting the victims.
First responders, community
“The City of Lebanon is fortunate to have such a courageous and dedicated community of first responders — neighbors who come together without hesitation in moments of greatest need to protect lives and property,” Capello said. “We are also deeply grateful to the friends, family members, and neighbors who provided comfort and support to the victims’ families during this tragedy.
Community support Bag of Hope on 720 Quentin Road in Lebanon will be open on Monday only to collect donations for the family affected by the fire.
If you want to make a donation, you can write your name and “family” on your donation bags.
The organization will post the clothing sizes that are needed as soon as they know them on Facebook.
You can contact Bag of Hope for pick ups at 717-454-0669, Ext 3.
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