Obituaries
Fatal Fire Kills 3 In West Orange; Town Mourns ‘Heartbreaking Loss’
The community is pulling together to raise funds for the family amid their devastating loss. Here's how you can help.
WEST ORANGE, NJ — The West Orange community continues to mourn for three victims of a fatal house fire that took place over the weekend.
A fire broke out at a Liberty Street home on Saturday, with first responders arriving to find flames in the kitchen area and heavy smoke throughout the house. Firefighters removed three unresponsive victims from the home: an adult and two children. They were later pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause and origin of the fatal blaze. Read More: 2 Kids, 1 Adult Die After Fire Breaks Out At West Orange Home
Find out what's happening in West Orangefor free with the latest updates from Patch.
On Monday, the Essex County Prosecutor's Office identified the deceased adult as Grace Drury, 75. The identities of the two children, aged 8 and 3, were withheld because they are minors.
An online GoFundMe fundraiser has been started to help the victims’ family members amid their devastating loss. Learn more or make a donation here.
Find out what's happening in West Orangefor free with the latest updates from Patch.
The fundraiser reads:
“On Saturday July 13, 2024, the West Orange School Community lost an elementary school student to a fatal house fire. The seven-year-old boy, along with his baby brother, and grandmother were also killed today. I used to live four houses away from this family on Liberty Street. After speaking to our superintendent, Hayden Moore, this GoFundMe was created to help support the family affected by today’s tragedy. All money raised will go directly to the family. Please show your West Orange community spirit and give what you can as a town mourns this loss.”
Moore said that “hearts are heavy” in West Orange, adding that the school community is mourning the tragic loss of one of its students and their family members.
“Our deepest condolences go out to the family during this incredibly difficult time,” the superintendent wrote. “Please join us in sending love and support to those affected by this heartbreaking loss.”
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