| Official Statement from the Office of District Fire Chief Thomas Eade:
STATEMENT REGARDING FATAL RESIDENTIAL FIRE
On behalf of the Lake Mohegan Fire District, I want to express our deepest condolences to the Toone family, their friends, classmates, and all those affected by this heartbreaking tragedy. The loss of two young lives is devastating and has deeply impacted our entire community. Our thoughts and prayers remain with everyone grieving during this difficult time.
I also want to recognize the extraordinary efforts of the members of our fire department, EMS personnel, and the mutual aid agencies that responded to this incident. Arriving crews were confronted with extremely dangerous conditions and immediately entered the residence in an aggressive effort to locate and rescue the victims. Their actions reflected tremendous courage, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to protecting life.
Our firefighters and EMS personnel did everything within their power in their attempt to save those children. Their efforts represent the very highest standards of the fire service and emergency medical response.
Incidents such as this weigh heavily not only on the family and the community, but also on the first responders who worked tirelessly under extraordinarily difficult conditions.
At this time, and out of respect for the family, there are limited additional details available for release. The investigation remains ongoing and is being conducted by the Westchester County Cause and Origin Team in conjunction with the New York State Police - Cortlandt Barracks. Investigators continue to focus on the rear dining room area of the residence, specifically examining a melted extension cord and melted power strip as part of the investigation.
Right now, our focus remains on supporting the Toone family, supporting our firefighters and EMS personnel, and standing together as a community during this incredibly difficult time. |
