ELKINS – Two children were killed and five other people were injured Monday when a fire broke out at a house in Elkins, Elkins Fire Chief Tom Meader said.
Four children, their parents and an adult family member were inside the two-story wood and masonry house when the fire occurred around 4 a.m. Monday, Meader said.
Meader said that he did not know the ages or genders of the children who were killed.
None of the victims has been identified.
The other children and the adults were injured and were taken to West Penn Hospital in Pittsburgh.
Five area fire departments responded to the fire, along with Randolph County Emergency Services and Elkins police.
“A house fire resulted in the loss of life, serious injuries and a total loss of the residents’ home and belonging,” Elkins Mayor Van Broughton told the Inter-Mountain. “I hope you will keep these people – our neighbors in your thoughts and prayers.”
Broughton said that residents can honor the victims by learning from the fire.
“Please, take this event as a reminder to practice good fire safety in your own homes,” Broughton said. “Tonight, maybe even today, on your lunch hour, check the batteries in your smoke detectors. Make sure everyone who lives in your home knows at least two escape routes out of every room. If there is someone in your home who might need extra assistance in a fire, make sure your neighbors know.”
The cause of the fire hasn’t been determined. The blaze is being investigated by the state Fire Marshal’s Office.
– The Associated Press
Two Children Perish Inside West Virginia House Fire
APS Radio: The LOS Experience
Host Jim Burneka talks with Stephanie White about "The LOS Experience" at Lucas Oil Stadium during FDIC International.
Promotional Prep 101: Fueling Your Future
David Dachinger speaks with guest Al Pratts, a promotional prep consultant who shares valuable insights on preparing for the challenges ahead.