SOUTH BEND, Ind. — The South Bend Fire Department is investigating a fire that has now claimed the lives of six children.
According to the Marion County Coroner's Office, 11-year-old Angel Smith has died. She was rushed to Riley Hospital for Children in Indianapolis, due to the extent of her injuries.
The other children that died were identified by the South Bend Fire Department:
- Demetis Smith, 10
- Davida Smith, 9
- Deontay Smith, 5
- D’Angelo Smith, 4
- Faith Smith, 17 months
Angel's father, 67-year-old David Smith, made it out of the house fire in the 200 block of North La Porte Avenue, near West Colfax Avenue.
When firefighters got to the fire Jan. 21, they found flames coming from both the first and second floors of the home. Multiple people were said to be trapped on the second floor.
Once firefighters had the first floor fire knocked down, they moved upstairs to try and reach the trapped children.
"We know how hard it is to lose anyone 'cause we do everything in our power to avoid it, but it hurts even more so when its someone who has just begun this time on this Earth," South Bend Fire Chief Carl Buchanon said.
NOTE: The above video is from a previous report on the fire.
Investigators said David Smith got out of the home after trying to rescue the children.
According to the fire department, one firefighter fell through the second floor onto the first floor. Medics transported him to a hospital for treatment. The fire department said he is now recovering at home and is expected to return to work in the near future. Another firefighter suffered minor burns.
The cause of the fire is now under investigation by the state fire marshal, South Bend Fire Department and South Bend Police Department.
Firefighters are asking people to please check their smoke detectors and discuss ways out of the home in case of fire.