URGENT UPDATE: A family in Wilkes-Barre narrowly escaped a devastating house fire this morning thanks to a working smoke detector. The fire erupted at approximately 9 a.m. on November 24, 2025, on Dana Street near the intersection of Farley Lane, prompting a rapid response from local fire crews.
Wilkes-Barre Fire Chief Jay Delaney reported that firefighters faced significant challenges battling the blaze, particularly due to the home’s slate roof, which made containment labor-intensive. “It was a real labor-intensive fire,” Delaney stated, emphasizing the urgency of their mission to ensure everyone was safe.
Homeowner Carolina Brito, who has lived in the house for 15 years, expressed her shock and sorrow as the fire disrupted her plans for Thanksgiving celebrations. “I had the turkey in the refrigerator and everything,” Brito lamented. Her husband was away in Florida, leaving her and her son as the sole residents at the time of the incident.
Remarkably, thanks to the smoke detector, the family was alerted to the fire in time. Delaney confirmed, “There was a working smoke alarm that alerted the family of the fire.” This critical safety feature undoubtedly played a pivotal role in their escape.
Fire crews were not only able to ensure the safety of the family but also rescued a dog and a rabbit from the burning home. Despite the extensive damage, Chief Delaney noted that the home was “badly damaged” but not completely destroyed due to the swift actions of the firefighters.
As the investigation continues, the cause of the fire remains undetermined. Brito confirmed that the fire likely started in the back of the attic, but officials have yet to release a detailed report.
The community is rallying to support Brito and her family during this difficult time as they seek to recover and rebuild after this traumatic event. The family’s home was insured, providing some relief in the wake of this disaster.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story and the community’s response to help those affected.
