A 2-year-old, identified as Isaiah Howell Jr., died after firefighters rescued him from a house fire at 1513 Finley Avenue in Indianapolis on Jan. 11. Two adults and two other children escaped, while the toddler was found upstairs and taken to Riley Hospital in critical condition. Investigators say the blaze was accidental with a possible electrical cause, and functioning smoke alarms were reported inside the home. The American Red Cross and local neighbors are assisting the grieving family.
2-Year-Old Isaiah Howell Jr. Dies After Firefighters Rescue Him From Indianapolis House Fire
Indianapolis Fire Department/FacebookA boy died after he was trapped inside this Indianapolis home when a fire broke out on Jan. 11
A 2-year-old boy has died after being rescued from a house fire in Indianapolis, authorities said. The child was later identified by the Indianapolis Fire Department (IFD) as Isaiah Howell Jr.
What Happened
The blaze broke out on Sunday, Jan. 11, at a home located at 1513 Finley Avenue. A family of five — two adults and three children — was inside when the fire erupted "in front of them," the IFD said. Two adults and two children, ages 4 years and 13 months, were able to evacuate, but the 2-year-old was upstairs and could not be reached by the adults.
A neighbor who joined the adults attempted to re-enter the home but was forced back by heavy smoke. Firefighters arrived and, after entering the residence, located the toddler within two minutes and brought him outside. He was transported in critical condition to Riley Hospital for Children.
Indianapolis Fire Department/FacebookA 2-year-old boy died after he was trapped in this Indianapolis home when a fire broke out on Jan. 11
"Despite the best efforts by firefighters and medical personnel, Isaiah Howell Jr. passed shortly after arrival to the hospital last evening," an IFD spokesperson said in a news release. "Our thoughts are with the family and all those affected by this tragedy."
Investigation and Community Response
Investigators have ruled the fire accidental, with an electrical issue listed as a possible cause, according to local reports. Officials also said smoke alarms inside the home were functioning at the time of the fire.
The American Red Cross has been called in to assist the family. Debbie Conway, president of the Bean Creek Neighborhood Association and a nearby resident, said neighbors will work with the Red Cross to help the grieving family with immediate needs such as temporary housing and replacing lost belongings.
The IFD declined to provide additional comment to PEOPLE at the time of reporting. Local news outlets including The Indianapolis Star and NBC affiliate WTHR covered the family's loss.
Resources
If you live in the area and would like to offer assistance, contact the Bean Creek Neighborhood Association or the local Red Cross chapter for guidance on how to help the family respectfully.
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