A house fire on Saturday morning, September 2 claimed the lives of two adults, two children, and a dog in Seattle’s Wallingford neighborhood.
The incident occurred in the 1000 block of N 48th St. and Whitman Avenue North. The Seattle Police Department reported that they were initially called to the scene around 8:45 am and discovered the house ablaze.
An 11-year-old girl managed to escape from the burning home and sought help from neighbors.
She was later treated for minor injuries and is now under the care of emergency personnel until she can be placed with relatives.
Police Chief Adrian Diaz said that the front door had been barricaded and that officers had to kick the door down while encountering smoke. The barricade made rescue efforts by first responders more challenging.
By 9:40 am, the fire was reported to be under control. With the circumstances around the fire raising questions, Seattle Police Department’s homicide detectives and arson investigators have been examining the site for evidence. The causes behind the fire and the reasons for the deaths remain unclear.
As investigation continues, Chief Diaz expressed the department’s intent to work closely with the surviving child to understand the events leading up to the fire and ensure she receives the necessary support.
