In a tragic incident that occurred on Friday, a devastating house fire claimed the life of a 13-year-old boy in the Dunleith neighborhood along Route 9.
This incident unfolded around 12:30 on the 400 block of Robinson Drive, prompting a response from multiple fire companies according to Assistant State Fire Marshal Michael Chionchio.
Upon arrival at the scene, firefighters were met with flames that had engulfed the one-story home. Their immediate priority was to search for and rescue any occupants inside. Amidst the intense heat and smoke, they discovered the teenager inside the burning structure.
Chionchio said firefighters discovered the teenager minutes into the fire and immediately rushed him out of the home. EMT’s and Paramedics worked to provide medical assistance as they rushed the teen to AI DuPont Hospital. He was later pronounced deceased at the hospital.
A dog was found inside the house during the incident, but details concerning the extent of the dog’s injuries were not immediately available.
The fire itself wreaked havoc on the property, causing extensive damage as flames and thick plumes of smoke billowed from the residence. The plumes of smoke were visible for miles around.
In response to this incident, the Office of the State Fire Marshal dispatched personnel to both the site of the fire and AI Dupont Hospital to investigate the cause of the blaze. Their diligent efforts will help shed light on the circumstances that led to this tragic fire.
Chionchio said the Delaware State Fire Marshal’s office continues to investigate the fire working to uncover the origin and cause of the blaze. The heavy fire damage to the home was estimated at $200,000.
