Victims ranged in age from 5 to 79. according to the authorities.
Nescopeck is located about 95 miles northwest of Philadelphia.
Officials responded to the fire scene in the two-story home shortly before 3 a.m. Friday, according to a public information report from the State Police. Three adults escaped safely while ten victims died inside.
State Police Lieutenant Derek Felsman said at a news conference Friday morning that “firefighters worked up the courage to break into the back of the home but were pushed back by the extensive flames and heat.” .
The victim was identified as Dale Baker, 19, by state police. Starr Baker, 22 years old. David Daubert Sr., 79 years old. Brian Daubert, 42 years old. Shannon Daubert, 45 years old. Laura Daubert, 47 years old. Her three children who were murdered were identified as her two boys aged 5 and her 6 and her girl aged 7.
“We are leveraging the assets of multiple departments to thoroughly and completely investigate this deadly fire,” said Fersman. ”.
When asked if authorities were conducting a criminal investigation into the fire, Mr Fersmann said: “At the moment, it’s a fire investigation.”
The cause of the fire is under investigation, Lucerne County District Attorney Sam Sangedolce told CNN.
“If the fire department determines that the cause was intentional and arson, it will launch a criminal investigation into the arson,” he said.
The American Red Cross said it is addressing the needs of those displaced by the fires through financial assistance and other services, including mental health resources for those affected and first responders.
“As this situation continues to evolve, we remain committed to the community of Neskopec and are working with local and county officials to extend our assistance and programs to help those affected by this tragedy. We will provide it,” the Pennsylvania Area of the American Red Cross told CNN in a statement.
CNN’s Liam Reilly contributed to this report.
Source: www.cnn.com
