Staff Reports
An overnight blaze claimed the lives of a Niagara Falls mother and daughter, while another sibling managed to escape from the inferno before firefighters arrived.
Niagara County Coroner Cindy-Lou Joyce identified the deceased as 34-year-old Tajuana Smith and her 10-year-old daughter, Kheyarra Williams.
Niagara Falls fire officials are still investigating the cause of the fire, which occurred about 1:15 a.m. Saturday at 716 Monteagle St.
The fire was already well under way as firefighters arrived at the scene, according to witnesses.
Rescuers attempted to search the second floor of the home, but had to disperse because of severe fire conditions.
The victims were later found on the second floor.
The surviving sibling was taken to the hospital for treatment.
Joyce said Saturday evening the deaths were accidental. She said the preliminary causes of death were smoke inhalation and thermal injury.
Niagara Falls Fire Chief William MacKay said late Saturday that an autopsy on the victims was performed Saturday, but results are still pending.
The blaze totally destroyed the home.
