Six souls, including three children aged 6, 12, and 13, perished in a devastating house fire on Newnan’s Macedonia Road. The early morning blaze on June 17, 2024, ripped through a single-family home, marking one of Newnan’s deadliest fires in recent history. Five members of the family managed to escape but remain hospitalized in serious condition.
Coweta County Fire Rescue responded to reports of a residential fire with possible entrapment at approximately 4:57 AM. Upon arrival at the 1300 block of Macedonia Road, firefighters encountered a horrific scene: the home was already engulfed in flames, with the fire rapidly spreading through the structure and into the attic.
Despite a desperate search and rescue operation, the intensity of the blaze made it impossible to save those trapped inside. Authorities later confirmed the heartbreaking news that six individuals had perished in the fire.
Community Mourns as Investigation Begins
The Coweta County Coroner identified the victims:
Ernest Horton, 74
Fannie Horton, 74
Katie Bonner, 36
Colton Bonner, 6
Jared Bonner, 12
Jonathon Bonner, 13
“We were able to pull six victims out of the house,” said Fire Chief Robby Flanagan. “The six people we rescued are deceased. It was a tough morning.”
Five other occupants of the home were transported to Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta with varying degrees of injuries. One firefighter also sustained minor injuries while battling the blaze.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation by Coweta County officials. While no foul play is suspected, authorities are conducting a thorough investigation to determine what sparked the deadly blaze.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the Newnan community. A GoFundMe page has been established to assist the surviving family members, and an outpouring of support has emerged. Residents are donating money, essential supplies, and words of comfort to help those impacted by the devastating fire.
How You Can Help
As the community mourns the loss of six lives, many are looking for ways to offer support and comfort to the surviving family members. Here are some ways you can help:
Donate to the GoFundMe: The GoFundMe page established by a family member aims to raise funds for medical expenses, funeral costs, and other essential needs as the survivors begin to rebuild their lives.
Contribute to Local Drives: Several local organizations and community groups are organizing drives to collect essential items for the family, such as clothing, toiletries, and non-perishable food.
Offer Emotional Support: Words of comfort and encouragement go a long way during times of grief. Consider sending a card, sharing a kind message on social media, or simply offering a listening ear.
Fire Safety: A Vital Reminder
This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fire safety measures in the home. Here are some essential tips to help protect yourself and your loved ones:
Install Smoke Alarms: Ensure your home has working smoke alarms on every level, including inside and outside sleeping areas.
Test Smoke Alarms Regularly: Test your smoke alarms monthly to ensure they are functioning correctly. Replace batteries at least once a year.
Develop an Escape Plan: Create a fire escape plan with your family and practice it regularly. The plan should include two ways out of every room and a designated meeting place outside.
Keep Flammables Away from Heat Sources: Store flammable liquids and materials away from heat sources, such as stoves, ovens, and space heaters.
Never Leave Cooking Unattended: Stay in the kitchen when cooking, especially when using grease or oil.
Be Cautious with Candles: Never leave burning candles unattended and keep them away from flammable materials.
By taking these precautions and remaining vigilant about fire safety, you can help prevent tragedies like the one that struck the Newnan community.
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