Probe Into Fire That Claimed 2 Young Lives Focuses On Likely Electrical Origin, Fire Chief Says

CROTON MANOR, NY — Fire investigators are zeroing in on the possible cause of a tragic house fire in Westchester County.

Lake Mohegan Fire District Chief Thomas Eade issued a statement after a fatal residential fire that claimed the lives of two children, offering condolences to the Toone family and outlining the ongoing investigation. The district said the loss of two young lives has deeply affected the family, classmates, friends, and the wider community.

"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," Eade said. "The loss of two young lives is devastating and has deeply impacted our entire community."

The chief said arriving crews encountered dangerous conditions and went into the home in an effort to find and rescue the victims.

"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," the chief said. "Arriving crews were confronted with extremely dangerous conditions and immediately entered the residence in an aggressive effort to locate and rescue the victims."

The chief said firefighters and EMS personnel did everything within their power in an attempt to save the children. The statement added that incidents like this affect not only the family and the community, but also the first responders who were at the scene.

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, according to the statement.

Investigators are continuing to focus on the rear dining room area of the residence, Eade said. They are specifically examining a melted extension cord and a melted power strip as part of the investigation, according to the chief.

"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," the statement said.

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