SUMMIT COUNTY, Ohio — Coventry Township fire officials say two people were killed and one other is in critical condition after a house fire in the early hours of Wednesday morning.
According to Coventry Local Schools Superintendent George Fisk, the two people who perished in the fire were students in the district. Neighbors told 3News that the teen victims were brother and sister who lived with their grandmother.
Coventry Fire Chief Adam Rockich reports that a call came in at 3:03 a.m. regarding a structure fire with people trapped inside a house located on Cove Blvd. One person inside the house was able to get out, with the other two trapped inside.
Rockich says responding fire crews found the juvenile male in a back bedroom on the first floor, while his sister was located in an upstairs hallway. The two were taken to the burn unit of Akron Children's Hospital, where they were pronounced dead.
The woman who was able to escape the house was initially taken to Cleveland Clinic Akron General Medical Center in critical condition. Rockich told 3News she was also transported to the burn unit at Akron Children's Hospital.
Wednesday morning, Fisk sent the following note to district families:
We are deeply saddened by the tragic news that two of our beloved Comets lost their lives in a house fire overnight. 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.
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. We encourage everyone to lean on each other and seek support as needed.
Our community's resilience will help us through this difficult time, and we remain committed to providing care and comfort to all impacted.
In addition, Portage Lakes Career Center added the following:
It is with deep sadness that we share the tragic loss of one of our PLCC Medical Tech students, who passed away in a house fire last night in Coventry Township. We are also saddened to hear that a sibling may have also been lost in this tragedy.
We know this news may be difficult for many in our community. Counselors will be available in the Lower Lecture Hall for any student or staff member needing a moment away from class or a space to process and seek support.
Please keep the student’s family, friends, and loved ones in your thoughts & prayers during this difficult time.
Rockich says the Ohio State Fire Marshal's office is investigating the cause of the blaze.
