Fire claims life of West Memphis child

10- year old killed in residential blaze

news@theeveningtimes.com A tragic fire struck a West Memphis family overnight on Tuesday, September 14. A fire in the Wilmore Homes complex claimed the life of a 10-year-old child.

Mayor Marco McClendon made the midnight scene and alerted city council members about the fire at the housing authority property on Ward 5. The mayor reported Police Lt. Charles Burch was first on the scene.

“He showed great bravery and leadership,” said McClendon. “Our police department did an excellent job but unfortunately a 10year-old child died in the house fire.”

The mayor said he witnessed fire fighters, medics and police work together

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and commended their efforts. Though one life was lost, others were rescued.

“Our men and women bravely went into the home and pulled out the mother and at least three other children,” said McClendon. “I thank them for their their heroic effort. Our hearts are heavy at the loss of this child.”

The mayor later learned that relatives were impacted. He named the child, a Jackson-Wonder student, and told city council members in an text message update.

“I just found out it was my cousin and his children,” said McClendon. “Thank you for all the prayers. To find out it was family hits differently. God will give comfort only He can give.”