PORTSMOUTH, Va. – A tragic fire engulfed a duplex in Portsmouth, resulting in the loss of a woman’s life as she fought to save her newborn baby and two other children. The incident took place on Neville Street, between Manteo and Shelby streets, just before 9:45 p.m. on Friday. Portsmouth Fire Rescue and Emergency Services responded to the scene after receiving reports of residents trapped inside.
Witnesses recounted the harrowing events, with neighbors describing the mother’s brave attempts to rescue her children. Despite managing to get the baby out through a window, the mother and two children remained trapped inside as the flames raged on. The valiant efforts of both fire crews and paramedics were praised for their heroic rescue operations amidst the chaos.
Following the rescue operation, three adults and three children were rushed to the hospital for medical treatment. The children are currently in critical condition, receiving advanced life support treatment. The unfortunate incident has left the community in mourning, with neighbors expressing their sympathy and solidarity for the affected family.
While the cause of the fire is still under investigation, authorities have deemed arson as an unlikely factor. One neighbor mentioned the mother’s longstanding concerns about an unsafe stove, although official confirmation from the Portsmouth Fire Marshal’s Office is pending. The ongoing investigation has revealed extensive damage to the duplex, rendering it uninhabitable and prompting the Red Cross to provide assistance to impacted residents.
The devastating consequences of the fire serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of such disasters and the importance of fire safety measures in residential settings. As the community grapples with the aftermath of the tragedy, efforts to support the affected residents and ensure their well-being remain a top priority. The resilience and compassion shown by neighbors and emergency responders in the face of adversity highlight the strength of community bonds in times of crisis.