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PALM BAY, Fla. — Two people, including a child, were killed early Sunday morning after a residential fire engulfed a home in Palm Bay, according to Palm Bay Fire Rescue.
Fire crews were dispatched around 2:19 a.m. to a structure fire in the 500 block of Janus Road NE after reports of occupants possibly trapped inside. When the first unit arrived, the residence was already more than 90 percent involved with heavy fire conditions.
An adult woman was located outside the home and informed firefighters that two individuals remained inside the structure, identified as an elderly woman and a 10 year old boy. They’ve been confirmed to be a grandmother and her grandson. Firefighters made multiple attempts to access the home from several entry points, but extreme fire conditions and heavy smoke prevented successful entry.
The woman outside the home was treated at the scene for smoke inhalation and transported to a local hospital for further evaluation. Despite rescue efforts, the elderly woman and the child were unable to escape and were pronounced dead at the scene.
Palm Bay Fire Rescue was assisted by the Palm Bay Police Department and Brevard County Fire Rescue. The Florida State Fire Marshal’s Office has launched an investigation to determine the cause of the fire.
Following the incident, Palm Bay Fire Rescue activated its Peer Support Team to assist responding personnel and family members. The department’s Chaplain Team and the American Red Cross also responded to provide support services to those affected.
Palm Bay Fire Rescue expressed its condolences to the family and loved ones impacted by the tragic loss.
The investigation remains ongoing.
