Four children and one adult dead after fire in Jeannette, Pennsylvania

Tragic House Fire Claims Lives of Four Children and Father in Jeannette

Location: Jeannette, Pennsylvania
Date: Wednesday, March 20, 2024
Victims: Tyler King (27), Kyson John (7), Kinzleigh John (6), Keagan John (3), and Korbyn John (1 month old)

A devastating house fire in Jeannette, Pennsylvania, has resulted in the loss of four children and their father. The fire broke out around midnight on Wednesday at a residence on Guy Street. At the time, there were eight people inside the house, including both parents and their six small children. The Westmoreland County coroner has identified the deceased as Tyler King (27), Kyson John (7), Kinzleigh John (6), Keagan John (3), and Korbyn John (1 month old).

Fortunately, the mother, Miranda John, and three of the children, Kayden John (10) and Kash John (1), were rescued. Miranda John is currently in stable condition, while Kayden and Kash are in critical condition and receiving treatment in the ICU. The tragic incident has left the community of Jeannette in mourning.

Response and Challenges Faced by First Responders

Jeannette's Fire Chief Bill Frye expressed his condolences and highlighted the challenges faced by the firefighters. He stated that approximately eight people were reported to be inside the house when the fire broke out. Despite the swift response of a fire lieutenant who arrived within a minute of being dispatched, the house was already engulfed in flames upon arrival.

Chief Frye also mentioned that the firefighters encountered difficulties with the water supply from a nearby hydrant, which added to the challenges they faced in their rescue efforts. Due to the rapid progression of the fire, they were unable to reach everyone inside the house. The intensity of the fire prevented neighbors from providing immediate assistance as well.

Impact on the Community and First Responders

The tragic loss of young children is a deeply distressing experience for first responders. Jeannette Mayor Curtis J. Antoniak acknowledged the emotional toll that such incidents can have on the brave men and women who protect and serve the community. He emphasized that these first responders carry the weight of their experiences with them long after their shifts end.

Neighbors who were familiar with the family expressed their shock and grief over the devastating outcome. A neighbor, Jack Mull, who had a close connection with the family and whose grandchildren played with the victims, described them as "good people." The fire also spread to a neighboring house, causing it to be a total loss, but fortunately, the occupants were able to evacuate without any injuries.

Investigation and Support for the Affected

Firefighters at the scene are collaborating with the state police fire marshal to investigate the cause of the fire. The Red Cross has pledged to provide assistance to anyone in need. Meanwhile, the community has come together to offer support and aid to the survivors.

The Jeannette City School District has sent a letter to families, acknowledging the heartbreaking loss suffered by multiple members of the school and community. The district has arranged for counselors and social workers to be available to help students and staff cope with their grief.

How to Help the Survivors

The family has requested support from the community, and donations of clothing can be made at Cecilia's Main Street Tattoo Gallery in Ligonier. Monetary donations can be made at the Elliott Community Federal Credit Union in Jeannette under "Jeannette fire survivors." Donations will also be collected at the Jeannette Midget Athletic Association Fieldhouse on Friday from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. If individuals are unable to attend but still wish to contribute, they can call or text 724-237-0847 for further information.

The family has provided information on clothing sizes for Miranda John and the two surviving boys. They are in need of women's clothing (medium or large) and size 7.5 women's shoes, as well as children's clothing (size medium 7-8 for boys, 18-month toddler clothing) and size 5 diapers. The community is encouraged to come together to support the family during this difficult time.

Conclusion

The tragic house fire in Jeannette has left the community devastated by the loss of four children and their father. The surviving family members, including the mother and two other children, are in need of support and prayers. The community has rallied together to offer assistance, and donations of clothing and monetary contributions are being accepted. The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing, while the school district provides counseling resources to help students and staff cope with their grief.