KEY WEST, FL – A devastating house fire erupted in the Bahama Village neighborhood of Key West, claiming the lives of two adults and a child, while three other children remain hospitalized. The blaze broke out around noon, trapping the family of six on the upper floor of their two-story apartment unit.
Firefighters responded promptly, but the inferno had already engulfed the building, making escape impossible for the family. Neighbors recounted the harrowing moments as one child attempted to leap from a second-story window to escape the thick, choking smoke.
Key West Fire Chief Alan Averett described the scene as one of desperation for both residents and first responders. Despite their quick action, the fire claimed the lives of 41-year-old John Decime, 38-year-old Evelyn Pierre, and their seven-year-old son, Dave Decime. The surviving children were transported to Miami for medical treatment, one via helicopter and the others by ambulance.
The community, still in shock, has rallied to support the Haitian Creole family, who faced not only the devastating loss but also a language barrier that complicated rescue efforts. Neighbors expressed their sorrow, noting the unprecedented nature of the tragedy in their tight-knit community.
The fire has displaced other families in the apartment complex, with the local housing authority working to provide temporary shelter. Officials are evaluating the damage to determine when residents might safely return to their homes.
As the investigation into the fire’s cause continues, speculation has arisen about whether a heater might have been in use during one of Key West’s colder nights, potentially sparking the blaze. However, authorities have yet to confirm the precise origin of the fire.
The surviving children are receiving care at Kendall Regional Hospital, where their condition remains a concern for family and friends. The tragedy has left the community mourning the loss of three lives and grappling with the impact of the disaster.