OTTUMWA, Iowa — Two people, including a 3-year-old boy, are dead following a house fire in Ottumwa, the city said in a press release.
Firefighters responded to the fire at 204 W Woodland Ave on Saturday, Dec. 9. When they arrived, they found the back half of the house was fully engulfed in flames. Firefighters searched "all accessible parts of the structure".
Despite their efforts, the city of reported two people died in the fire: 31-year-old Mae Hen and 3-year-old Htoo Kabaw. It is unclear how many other people evacuated from the home during the fire. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
In a GoFundMe page set up for Kabaw's family, the organizer describes Kabaw as "well-behaved" and always making other people smile.
"Everyone loved him and he will be dearly missed," said Kari Paw on the GoFundMe page. "I'm along with the family, we are all heartbroken. There's no word to describe the family loss."
Other members of the Ottumwa community are also showing their support. Michael McGrory, superintendent of the Ottumwa Community School District, shared in a statement Monday that the fire impacted some Ottumwa Schools families.
"The family lost everything they had including their home, and sadly two lives were lost in the fire," McGrory said in part. "This devastating event has caused immeasurable distress, and our thoughts and prayers are with those affected. We extend our support and assistance in helping these families navigate through this challenging period."
Horace Mann PTA, an organization associated with a local elementary school, also shared their support on Facebook. The PTA plans to make a monetary donation to the affected families.