4 Children Die In Fire At Multi-Family Home In Somersville

SOMERSVILLE, CT — A raging house fire in a multi-family home Tuesday night took the lives of four children, according to state police and fire officials.

The fire at 42-44 Quality Avenue was reported around 10:20 p.m., and first responders found "the front of the house fully involved," Somers Fire Chief John Roache said, adding the flames "spread very quickly."

Somers First Selectman Tim Keeney said he was told at the scene by state police and fire officials that four children perished, ranging in age from 5 to 12. State police confirmed that information during a news conference at fire headquarters, but did not release the names and ages of the victims pending autopsies by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.

Roache said multiple persons were taken to Johnson Memorial Hospital in Stafford. He confirmed one person, a 19-year-old girl who was the only adult on the premises at the time, jumped from a second-story window.

Trooper First Class Pedro Muniz said several pets were rescued by firefighters, but a litter of puppies was killed. One firefighter sustained minor burns battling the blaze, but is expected to fully recover.

Roache said a total of 11 people occupied the two-family structure, which was built in 1928 according to town property records.

Keeney told Patch counseling and support services would be available in town schools, as well as for first responders.

A statement from Superintendent of Schools Sam Galloway read, "Our Somers Public Schools community is dealing with this tragic event and our counseling staff will provide support to students throughout the week as needed. Our staff, students and families will support each other as we navigate this tragedy."

The Connecticut State Police Major Crime Squad was on scene, as well as state troopers and officials of the state fire marshal's office.

"At this time, it does not appear to be criminal in nature," Muniz said.

This is a breaking news story. Check back throughout the day for additional updates.