WINTER HAVEN, Fla. – Investigators have tracked down the source of a fast-moving house fire that claimed two lives in Winter Haven this morning. The Winter Haven Fire Department announced Sunday evening that an electrical fault at an outlet triggered the deadly blaze on 5th St NE.
The fire broke out in an extended room at the back of the single-story residence. Crews responded to the scene at approximately 10:16 a.m. to find heavy smoke and flames pouring from the structure.
Emergency personnel managed to pull the fire under control within five minutes of arrival, but two people inside the home did not survive.
Authorities have confirmed the identities of the victims as one male, who lived at the home, and one female, who was visiting. Officials stated that the next of kin for both individuals have been formally notified. Two other adults inside the home managed to escape the burning building safely before emergency crews arrived.
While the physical source of the fire is settled, the exact cause of death for both victims remains pending. The local Medical Examiner’s Office is currently handling those autopsies to make an official determination.
“Our hearts are with the family and loved ones of those who lost their lives in this tragic fire,” Winter Haven Fire Chief Drew Neubrand said in a statement. “We also recognize the impact this incident has on our entire community, and we are grateful that two adults were able to escape safely.”
Local fire investigators and the State Fire Marshal’s Office worked the scene through the afternoon to pin down the details. The American Red Cross was also called out to provide immediate support to the surviving residents. Fire officials noted that this will serve as their final update on the incident for the evening.
READ: Two Elderly Residents Die In Morning Winter Haven House Fire
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