A horrific house fire in Pennsylvania on Wednesday killed four young children and one adult, according to officials.
According to the Westmoreland County Coroner’s Office, the victims were a 1-month-old girl, Korbyn John; a 3-year-old boy, Keagan John; a 6-year-old girl, Kinzleigh John; a 7-year-old boy, Kyson John; and a 27-year-old male, Tyler King.
According to fire officials and the coroner, the fire broke out shortly after midnight at a residence near Jeanette, roughly 30 miles outside of Pittsburgh, and completely destroyed the structure.
An adult and two children were among the three people rescued, according to firefighters.
Neighbor Jack Mull told Pittsburgh ABC affiliate WTAE that he helped rescue the mother and two children.
“I ran over to try to get in downstairs, but it was just too hot—too many flames,” the man added. “I ran into the backyard here, grabbed the ladder, and went over. Miranda, the mother, was on the roof at the back. So I went to try and help her with the baby.”
Mull claimed the mother attempted to return inside to save the rest of her family.
Only the chimney remained standing at the family’s home.
The fire also ravaged the house next door. WTAE reports that everyone in the adjoining home evacuated safely.
“We have lost multiple members of our school district and community in this devastating incident,” Jeannette City School District Superintendent Matthew Jones wrote in a letter to families. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and loved ones of those who have tragically passed away.”
He stated that counselors and social workers will be ready to assist mourning students.
“Please know that our entire school community stands with the family and friends of those lost, and we offer our deepest condolences and unwavering support,” Jones said in a statement.
