a woman of 49 years old died and one 4-year-old girl remains in critical condition after a fire in a home Philadelphia, United Statesan emergency that, according to the first investigations, would have started with a electric bicycle that was charging inside the house.
The case has generated concern because it occurred while the family was sleeping and because authorities believe that The fire spread rapidly during the early morning.
According to information published by ‘People’, quoting Philadelphia Fire Department (PFD)the flames were reported on the 4:45 am on Friday, June 19 in a home located in the sector of South Philadelphia.
The victims tried to escape the fire.
When emergency crews arrived at the scene, they managed to rescue three people that were inside the house.
However, one of them, a woman from 49 yearslater died in the hospital due to the severity of the injuries sustained during the fire.
The other most affected victim was a 4 year old girlwho was transferred to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and remains in critical condition, as reported ‘NBC 10 Philadelphia’.
A third woman, identified as the minor’s mother, was also injured. According to information cited by CBS Newswould have managed to reach safety after jumping from a second-story window. His condition was reported as stable.
The executive chief of the Philadelphia Fire Department, Daniel McCartyexplained that rescuers found two of the victims in the kitchen area of the first floor.
“It seems that they were awakened by the smoke and fire. Because of the place where they were found, it seems that they were trying to leave the house.“said McCarty, quoted by 6abc Philadelphia.
An electric bicycle that he was charging would be the origin of the emergency
After controlling the fire, investigators preliminarily determined that the fire had started on the first floor of the home.
As reported CBS News, 6abc Philadelphia and ‘People’authorities believe that the focus of the emergency was related to a electric bicycle that was connected and charging in the living room of the house.
McCarty indicated that the highest concentration of fire was recorded precisely in that area of the property.
Although investigators have already identified a possible origin, the investigation remains open to establish exactly how the emergency occurred.
The family had moved just six months ago.
Another detail revealed by the American media is that the family had moved into the house just in January 2026that is, about six months before the tragedy.
Neighbors in the area recounted dramatic scenes during the fire.
“I heard someone screaming very loudly. I had never heard anything like that. It was terrifying“said the neighbor Chris Adams to 6abc Philadelphia.
For his part, the Philadelphia Fire Department He expressed his condolences through a Facebook post.
“Our hearts go out to the family and neighbors affected by this tragic fire“said the entity.
What is known about smoke detectors
According to information provided by a Fire Department spokesperson to CBS Newsinvestigators found melted smoke detectors inside the home.
However, the entity indicated that the teams were working properly when the fire startedso now we are seeking to establish why the emergency reached such a magnitude in such a short time.
The authorities continue to collect evidence and testimonies to clarify all the details of what happened.
Recommendations to prevent fires due to electrical equipment
Although US authorities continue to investigate the case, emergency agencies often insist on preventive measures related to electrical appliances and charging devices.
According to recommendations disclosed by the Bogotá Official Fire Departmentit is important:
– Do not exceed loading times of electrical and electronic devices.
– Avoid overload extension cords or outlets.
– Periodically check the condition of cables, plugs and connections.
– Keep charging devices away from flammable materials.
– In case of fire of electrical origin, do not try to put it out with water.
– Immediately call emergency services.
While the investigation in Philadelphia continues, the tragedy once again puts on the table the risks associated with electrical equipment connected for long periods and the importance of having prevention measures within homes.
