Tragic Loss: Southern California Family Mourns Christmas Fire Victims
By Avi Farah
Published December 26, 2023
A heart-wrenching incident unfolded in southern California as a family faced the devastating loss of two little girls in a fire ignited by a Christmas tree.
The Fateful Night
Barstow firefighters responded to distressing calls on the evening of Dec. 14, rushing to a house fire where reports indicated that children were trapped inside.
Desperate Efforts
Charmon and Akeem Isom, the parents, made valiant attempts to rescue their daughters before the firefighters arrived. Charmon Isom sustained first-degree burns on his feet while trying to reach the girls amidst the flames.
Rescue Efforts
Firefighters heroically leaped through separate bedroom windows to locate the trapped girls, who were then handed over to police officers for immediate transport to ambulances and a local hospital.
Heartbreaking Loss
Tragically, the family first lost 2-year-old Aalijah, while 7-year-old Annie was airlifted to a burn center. Despite a week-long battle, Annie succumbed to her injuries, and her organs were donated following her passing.
Community Support
The community gathered for a solemn vigil to honor the girls, and the family, devastated by the loss, is now seeking financial assistance to cover the girls' funerals and secure a new home for the remaining members.
Preventing Further Tragedies
In the wake of this heartrending event, it has come to light that the home's smoke detectors may not have functioned. The Los Angeles Fire Department emphasizes the dangers of Christmas trees in homes and provides safety tips on its website to avert similar tragedies.
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