SPOKANE COUNTY, Wash. — Spokane County Fire officials have determined the cause of a Millwood house fire that killed two children to be an improperly disposed cigarette.
Fire officials held a press conference Tuesday afternoon to provide the latest updates on the investigation. The two victims of the fire were confirmed to be seven and nine-years-old. Fire Chief Frank Soto Jr. said crews tried everything to revive the two young boys.
"We're all hurting," Soto Jr. said. "It's never easy to go on a fire fatality, and it's incomprehensible when you have to go to a child that has died. And in this case, it was multiple deaths."
One of the investigators, Spokane Valley Fire's Dustin Thurman, confirmed that the fire was caused by a cigarette that was improperly disposed of near the front porch of the house. Thurman said the cigarette landed in combustible materials and eventually spread into the house.
Spokane Valley Fire Marshal Brett Anderson reminded those in attendance that in the event of a house fire, residents should evacuate immediately and then call the fire department.
"Once you're out, you can make your 911 call, you can take an assessment of what's going on, but do not go back in for anyone or anything," Anderson said.
Officials confirmed that the investigation into the fire is closed. There was no mention of charges or anyone facing legal action for the fire.
A GoFund Me has been organized for the children's family. To donate, click here.
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