Somers, Connecticut – The tight-knit community of Somers, Connecticut, is in shock following a devastating fire that claimed the lives of four children in a multi-family home on Quality Ave. The tragic incident unfolded Tuesday night, prompting a swift response from emergency crews who arrived on the scene within minutes of the reported fire.
Somers Fire Department Chief John Roache reported that the fire engulfed the front of the two-story home, with multiple individuals trapped on the second floor. Among the residents were a total of eight people on one side of the structure, with seven present during the fire outbreak. Fortunately, a family of four on the other side managed to escape unharmed.
Tragically, two children succumbed to their injuries at the scene, while two more were pronounced dead after being located inside the home. The four young victims, ages 5, 6, 8, and 12, left a community devastated by their untimely deaths.
To support the affected family in this time of grief, a GoFundMe campaign was initiated by a woman who identified herself as a cousin of the deceased children. The fundraising efforts seek to alleviate funeral costs, with a goal of $50,000.
Authorities refrained from releasing the names of the deceased minors pending autopsies, aiming to conclude by Wednesday afternoon or Thursday morning. First Selectman Tim Keeney described the incident as a profound loss for the entire town, emphasizing the emotional toll on the community.
Somers school officials were promptly notified, as all four children attended local schools. Superintendent of Schools Sam Galloway expressed profound sorrow over the tragedy, highlighting the immediate deployment of additional counseling services for students and staff affected by the heartbreaking loss.
The intensity of the fire, which rapidly spread from the first to the second floor, hindered rescue efforts due to the home’s construction style dating back to the 1950s or ’60s. Despite the tireless efforts of firefighters, the blaze was only controlled after midnight, leaving the residence severely damaged and deemed a total loss.
In solidarity with the grieving families, the Somers community rallied support, offering accommodation, fundraising initiatives, and expressions of sympathy. State Senator John Kissel echoed sentiments of collective mourning, extending prayers to all impacted by the devastating fire.
State police and investigative units have joined forces with local authorities to determine the cause of the blaze and investigate the fatalities. Trooper First Class Pedro Muniz urged cooperation from witnesses in providing any footage that could aid in the investigation, emphasizing the complexity of the ongoing inquiry.
As the somber reality of the tragedy settles over Somers, residents strive to come together in solidarity, offering assistance and comfort to those grappling with the aftermath of the devastating fire. The community’s resilience and compassion shine through as they navigate through this unimaginable loss.