Community Corner

12 Victims Of Philadelphia Fire Identified As 1 Family

Nine children and three adults, all of whom were related, lost their lives in last week's devastating fire.

PHILADELPHIA — Officials Tuesday identified the 12 people who died in a fire Wednesday last week in Philadelphia's Fairmount section.

The victims were nine children and three adults, all of whom lived in an apartment at 869 N. 23rd Street. All were part of the same intergenerational family.

The victims are:

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  • Dekwan Robinson
  • Destiny McDonald
  • Janiyah Roberts
  • J'Kwan Robinson
  • Natasha Wayne
  • Quientien Tate-McDonald
  • Quinsha White
  • Rosalee McDonald
  • Shaniece Wayne
  • Taniesha Robinson
  • Tiffany Robinson
  • Virginia Thomas

All 12 died of smoke inhalation, according to the medical examiner's office.

Officials said under Pennsylvania law, only certain portions of death certificates are considered public information, and dates of birth are not inlcuded.

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"On behalf of the entire Health Department, I want to express our deepest condolences to those who have been affected by this fire," Health Commissioner Dr. Cheryl Bettigole said. "We mourn for each of the young mothers and children lost, everything they should have been able to become and to experience, and the tremendous loss experienced by their families, their communities, and our city in this terrible tragedy."

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"Since that horrific day, the entire city has been in mourning. We are devastated by the tragic loss of twelve lives. My thoughts continue to be with the families and loved ones of the victims," said Mayor Jim Kenney. "I want to thank our Fire Department and first responders for their quick response to this fire, and express my gratitude to all involved in this thorough investigation."

The American Red Cross and the Philadelphia Housing Authority is helping families impacted by this fire through resource and case management, along with mental health and spiritual support.

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The American Red Cross and Salvation Army said item and monetary donations are not needed for this response and asked people not to bring donations to the Bache-Martin Elementary School.

Community resources and offers of support for the fire victims and their families can be made by calling the Philadelphia Housing Authority at 215-684-5300 or emailing 869support@pha.phila.gov.

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