A heartbreaking overnight fire in Westchester County claimed the lives of two teenagers and left an entire community mourning.
The fire broke out around 2 a.m. Wednesday at a home on Sherwood Road in Cortlandt Manor. According to fire officials, flames quickly tore through the house, trapping family members inside as neighbors and firefighters rushed to help.
Authorities said a 17-year-old girl, identified by friends as Alina Toone, and her 15-year-old brother, Jeremiah Toone, were pulled from the burning home in critical condition after suffering severe burn injuries. Despite rescue efforts, both teens later died from their injuries.
Neighbors described terrifying moments as flames engulfed the home. Some residents ran outside carrying ladders in an attempt to help family members escape before firefighters arrived.
Firefighters faced intense heat, thick smoke, and near-zero visibility while trying to reach those trapped inside. Rescue crews eventually managed to enter through windows after flames blocked the main doors.
Officials said the family’s pet dog also died in the fire.
The children’s mother suffered injuries but is expected to survive. Another adult and a firefighter were also hurt during the emergency response. Several other people were reportedly inside the home when the fire started.
A preliminary investigation found that the fire may have been caused by a failed power strip connected to an extension cord in the dining room. Investigators said the flames spread rapidly through the raised ranch-style home.
Officials noted that smoke detectors inside the house alerted the family to the danger. The children’s father, Gregory Toone, who works as a county corrections officer, was reportedly at work when the fire began.
As news of the tragedy spread, friends, classmates, and neighbors gathered near the destroyed home to leave flowers, stuffed animals, and messages of support for the grieving family.
Many in the community remembered Jeremiah as a kind and caring teenager who was loved by friends and classmates.
Residents who have lived in the neighborhood for decades said they were shocked by the tragedy, calling it one of the worst incidents the area has ever experienced.
Local officials and the Putnam Valley school community said support services will be made available to help students, friends, and family members cope with the devastating loss.
