The Lebanon County community is mourning the tragic loss of four individuals in a house fire that occurred on Sunday morning (September 28). The victims, identified by the county coroner, include one-year-old Amarri Rodriguez from Brooklyn, New York, four-year-old Veyda Pereyra, 17-year-old Jaeden Nunez, and 73-year-old Josefina Estevez, all from Lebanon, Pennsylvania. The fire broke out during a birthday celebration at a home on Church Street, where ten people were present.
The fire, which started from an electrical outlet in the first-floor living room, quickly engulfed the house. Firefighters responded to the scene around 8:40 a.m. and found the first and second floors fully ablaze. Despite their efforts, the fire claimed the lives of the four victims, and two others remain hospitalized, with one in critical condition.
Lebanon Mayor Sherry Capello expressed deep sorrow for the loss, stating, "Our hearts and prayers are with the friends and family of the people involved." The community has rallied to support the affected families, with a memorial featuring candles, flowers, and stuffed animals growing outside the home. Local organizations, such as Bag of Hope Thrift Store, are collecting donations to assist the families, including gift cards, household items, and blankets.
The Pennsylvania State Police Fire Marshal's Office is investigating the incident, which has been ruled accidental. This tragedy marks the second deadly fire in the area within a year, underscoring the importance of community support and first responders' dedication.