UPDATE: Mother, Daughter Die in Mount Vernon Fire

UPDATE: The Mount Vernon Fire Department has released information about the overnight apartment fire that claimed two lives.

At about 3:30 a.m. on Sunday, the Mount Vernon Fire Department responded to a fire at 31 South 13th Ave.

Firefighters arriving at the scene found the entire second floor engulfed with the fire spreading quickly.

Nina Bryant, who was in her early thirties, and her daughter Nadia Bryant, aged 17 months, sustained fatal injuries. One other individual was transported to Montefiore Hospital – Mount Vernon with non-life threatening injuries. Eight other individuals lived in the residence and none of them reported any injuries.

“The entire City of Mount Vernon stands with this family in their time of pain and grief," Mayor Richard Thomas said. "The devastating loss of a young mother and child is something no one should ever have to bear. Our prayers are with the survivors and we extend them our deepest condolences and commitment to assist during this difficult moment. This tragedy impacts all of us and serves as a reminder that fire safety is imperative. We offer our gratitude to our bravest first responders for their tireless efforts.”

The Mount Vernon Fire Department was assisted by the New Rochelle, Pelham, and Eastchester fire departments. More than 35 firefighters responded to the scene.

“This is a type of tragedy that every firefighter fears," Mount Vernon Fire Commissioner Theodore “Ted” Beale said. "We urge all families to check their smoke detectors twice a year and to make a safety plan with their loved ones. Remember – if you smell smoke, evacuate your home immediately. Stay low to the ground and call 911.”

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. The Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity, Greater Centennial A.M.E. Zion Church and others are assisting the displaced residents.

City Council President Roberta Apuzzo said, “Our hearts go out to the Bryant family and we want to thank our Fire Department for the hard work and effort they put into fighting this fire.”

Original post

MOUNT VERNON, NY — Two people were killed — a young mother and an infant — in a fire Sunday morning in Mount Vernon.

Fire officials said the blaze on South 13th Avenue started around 3:40 a.m., lohud.com reported.

Mayor Richard Thomas said no details will be released and that the city was in mourning.

FIOS1 News said the house had 11 occupants and that the mother was 31 years old.

Image via Shutterstock.