A devastating house fire in Barstow, California, on December 14th, has left a community in mourning after claiming the lives of two sisters, Aalijah Isom, aged 2, and Annie, aged 7.
The heartbreaking incident, reportedly caused by a Christmas tree, unfolded as first responders rushed to rescue the children trapped inside the engulfed residence.
Tragic House Fire Claims Lives of Sisters
First responders from the Barstow Fire Protection District were met with challenging conditions as heavy fire and smoke engulfed the house on St. Lawrence Street.
Despite the difficulties, firefighters bravely conducted two separate rescues, jumping through bedroom windows to locate and save the trapped children. The rescued sisters were handed over to Barstow Police Officers and rushed to waiting ambulances.
The immediate response and efforts to save the children, Aalijah succumbed to her injuries. Annie, on the other hand, was airlifted to the UC Irvine burn facility in Orange County but tragically passed away.
The family decided to donate Annie’s organs, adding a poignant dimension to the heartbreaking story. The Barstow Police Department and San Bernardino County Arson Investigators are actively investigating the cause of the fire.
A community vigil held in memory of the two girls brought together friends, neighbors, and well-wishers to share grief and offer support to the grieving Isom family.
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Barstow, California Mourns After Fatal House Fire
Charmon and Akeem Isom, parents of the two young girls, recounted the harrowing experience of attempting to save their children from the flames.
Charmon suffered first-degree burns on her feet in her desperate attempts to rescue her daughters. The family revealed that the smoke detectors in their home were not functioning during the tragic incident.
The Isom family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to cover Aalijah and Annie’s funeral expenses and support the family’s needs, including securing a new home.
The fundraiser, expressing the unique personalities of the sisters, described Aalijah as the “youngest and the heart of the family” and Annie as a “vivacious spirit” who brought joy and laughter to their lives.
The devastating loss of Aalijah and Annie has deeply affected the Barstow community, prompting an outpouring of support and solidarity.
As investigators work to determine the cause of the fire, the Isom family faces an unimaginable tragedy, and the community rallies together to provide comfort and assistance during this difficult time.
The heartbreaking incident serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of fire safety, especially during the holiday season.
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