Fatal Early Morning House Fire in Northwest Spokane Claims Life of Child

A house fire in Northwest Spokane early Monday morning led to the tragic death of an 11-year-old boy. Firefighters arrived at the scene within five minutes, rescuing a disoriented adult female from the home. Investigators determined the fire was incendiary, ignited by the child while he and his grandmother were sleeping in the basement. The grandmother attempted to extinguish the flames but was forced to escape due to heavy smoke. Fortunately, she successfully alerted three other children and the child's mother, who evacuated safely.

The Red Cross is currently providing assistance to three adults and three children who were displaced by the fire. Spokane Fire Department officials emphasize the importance of early intervention and fire safety education for children. Parents should consider enrolling children with a history of fire-setting in the Youth Fire-Setting Prevention Program at 509-625-7058.