Update: Two Children Killed in House Fire in Augusta Identified
The identities of two children who died in a house fire early this morning in Augusta have been released.
Richmond County Coroner Mark Bowen says 10-year-old Taysha Clifford and 7-year-old Abrey Williams were pronounced dead at 2:02 am. Autopsies are being scheduled.
Augusta-Richmond County firefighters were called to the 1900 block of Moore Road around 1:00 am where flames were shooting through the front door and windows.
Firefighters were able to extinguish the flames quickly, but once they were able to get inside they found the bodies of Clifford and Williams in a bedroom.
The children’s mother and a 13-year-old were able to escape from the fire. They were taken to Doctors Hospital to be checked, but officials say they were not injured.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Statement from Augusta, Georgia Fire/EMA:
“We are deeply saddened by this loss and extend our heartfelt condolences to the family. Such tragedies remind us of the importance of fire safety, especially during the winter months. We encourage everyone to take extra precautions: keep heating devices away from flammable materials, never leave candles unattended, and ensure your smoke alarms are working properly.”