News & Stories

Ten People Die in Pennysylvania House Fire

April 3, 2008

Ten people died today after a fire swept through a house outside Brockway, Pennsylvania. The blaze started about 2:45 a.m. Fire crews arrived within minutes, but the house already was engulfed, trapping the victims inside. Killed were Kimberly Peterson, 40; Rebecca Peterson, 17; Douglas Peterson III, 13; Isaac Peterson, 8; Grace Peterson, 6; Lillian Peterson, 11 months. The father, Douglas Peterson, was working a night shift when the fire broke out. Three of the Petersons’ grandchildren also died in the fire in addition to a family friend. Two of the Peterson children, Elizabeth, 20, and James, 11, escaped the fire. The Peterson family attend Alliance Church in Brockway. 
 
Fire marshals at the scene had not yet determined the cause of the blaze, but State Police trooper Bruce Morris told the Associated Press that the fire did not appear to be suspicious. Brockway is about 80 miles northeast of Pittsburgh. 
 
A memorial fund for the family has been set up. If you are interested in contributing, gifts can be sent to 
 
Peterson Memorial Fund 
Priority First Federal Credit Union 
550 Main Street 
Brockway, PA 15824 
 
Or you can contact the church office at tph1114@brockwaytv.com.