Erie, PA (Aug. 12, 2019) — At 1:15 a.m., Sunday August 11, Erie Firefighters and Police Officers, in conjunction with paramedics from EmergyCare, were called to 1248 W. 11th St. for a structure fire with multiple occupants trapped inside. The investigation into the exact cause of the fire is ongoing.
Our first responders acted with bravery and courage, rescuing seven people, five being young children. All patients were taken to UPMC Hamot. Unfortunately, all five children have passed away and the woman who was flown to Pittsburgh remains in critical condition.
Tomorrow, Aug. 13, the City of Erie will be holding a press conference, at 2 p.m. at City Hall, located at 626 State Street, Erie, PA 16501 which will also be streamed live on the City of Erie’s Facebook Page (@CityofEriePA).
The purpose of the press conference is to provide an update and take questions from the press about any aspect of the fire investigation. Mayor Joe Schember, Fire Chief Guy Santone, and Police Chief Dan Spizarny will be available for comment and questions.
Additionally, we have learned that Country Fair will be donating all proceeds from Tuesday’s coffee sales in every one of its stores to a fund being created for the families of the daycare fire victims.
The Hamot Health Foundation will also be directing Erie Gives donations to family of daycare fire victims and our first responders.
Anyone with information regarding the fire is asked to contact Erie Police Detective Sgt. Hertel at 870-1260 or Detective Walker at 870-1122.
