ID Released Of Elderly Victim Of Waterbury House Fire

The community has been donating money to help the family, who lost a loved one and their home.

By Michelle Tuccitto Sullo, Patch Staff

Jul 7, 2026 12:21 pm EDT

A woman died from her injuries in a house fire at 136 Pinecrest Dr. in Waterbury over the holiday weekend. (Patch Graphics)

WATERBURY, CT — A woman who died in a July 4 fire at 136 Pinecrest Dr. has been identified as 91-year-old Ruth Monroe.

Fire Capt. Edward Partridge released the victim’s name on Tuesday.

“Our hearts are with the family and loved ones that have suffered such a loss,” Partridge said.

Firefighters responding to the fire found Monroe in a lower level bedroom of the single-family home, according to Partridge.

Despite emergency medical treatment by firefighters and paramedics, she was later pronounced dead at Waterbury Hospital.

A caller reporting the fire indicated the woman was still inside the house and immobile.

The Fire Marshal's Office is still investigating the cause of the fire.

A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help the family. The fundraiser, “Help Mike’s Family Recover from Devastating Loss,” had raised $10,405 toward a $14,000 goal as of noon on Tuesday.

Michael Monroe, campaign organizer, wrote, “The 4th of July is supposed to be a day of celebration but for me from now on .. it will be a day that will be the most horrific day of my life..I lost my mom and became virtually homeless by a fire in my home.. My family is devastated by the loss of my mom and also the loss of our house as well. ..if you can help us if you have any means ..please help us as we have lost everything..clothes, memories and most of all my mom.”