A fire at a home in Ohio early Wednesday morning resulted in the death of two people and left a third in critical condition, officials say.
Authorities received a report around 3 a.m. about two juveniles inside a home in “smoke and flames” in Summit County, according to a Coventry Township Fire Department press release obtained by USA TODAY. The caller was able to escape the property before contacting law enforcement.
Responding deputies attempted to enter the residence but getting inside was “nearly impossible,” officials said.
The victims, described as a male and female teen by local news, were removed from the home when fire crews got to the scene. They were discovered in two different bedrooms and were reportedly asleep when the blaze started.
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School official calls victim deaths a ‘devastating loss’
The teenagers, who were high school students of Coventry Local School District, were taken to a local hospital and succumbed to their injuries. In a statement shared with USA TODAY, Superintendant George Fisk acknowledged their deaths, saying the community is “deeply saddened.”
“This devastating loss has touched our entire school community, and our hearts are with the families and friends of these students during this difficult time,” the statement said. “Our primary focus is supporting our students, staff, and families as we all cope with this heartbreaking loss. Counselors and mental health support services are currently working to provide care for those students struggling during this time.”
Third person identified as the grandmother
The third victim was the grandmother, who is in critical condition, according to reports. She initially called the police to the scene.
Friends informed Fox 8 that the teens lived with their grandmother.
This incident is under investigation by the South Summit Fire Investigation Team with assistance from the State Fire Marshal’s Office.
Taylor Ardrey is a news reporter for USA TODAY. You can reach her at tardrey@gannett.com.
