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Fifth Death Confirmed After Lebanon, Pa., Birthday-Party House Fire Ruled Accidental

Officials say the blaze began at a first-floor electrical outlet, prompting an investigation into how it proved fatal despite working smoke detectors.

Overview

  • Mayor Sherry Capello said 23-year-old Tailing Nunez died from injuries, bringing the death toll to five, with one person in stable condition and four others treated for minor injuries.
  • The Pennsylvania State Police fire marshal determined the fire was accidental and originated at a living-room outlet, and investigators are examining whether the outlet was faulty or overloaded.
  • The other victims were identified as Amarri Morris Rodriguez, 1; Veyda Pereyra, 4; Jaeden Nunez, 17; and Josefina Estevez, 73, according to the Lebanon County Coroner’s Office.
  • Ten people were inside the duplex on the 800 block of Church Street for a birthday gathering when flames erupted around 8:43 a.m.; crews arrived to heavy fire, called a second alarm, rescued three people, then withdrew before later recovering two victims.
  • The community has organized support including a prayer vigil, donations through Bag of Hope and the United Way, and an Oct. 11 fundraiser featuring softball and cornhole tournaments.