A boy’s desperate 911 call came just moments before flames tore through his Penn Yan home Friday morning.
Police say the 12-year-old, now identified as Ethan Parker, called for help around 7:36 a.m. on Sept. 19 after waking to find the house on fire. He tried to alert his 78-year-old grandmother, Patricia Stenz, but both were overcome by smoke before first responders could reach them.
Officers arrived at 149 Cornwell Street to find flames shooting from the northeast side of the home. They tried to enter but were pushed back by intense heat and smoke. Firefighters from Penn Yan and surrounding departments were able to reach the two inside — Ethan was found in a first-floor bedroom; Patricia was located on a bed nearby.
A dog in the home did not survive.
Both Ethan and Patricia were taken to Soldiers & Sailors Hospital, then flown to Upstate Medical in Syracuse. Police confirmed Ethan died on Sept. 21. Patricia died the next day.
The school district says Ethan was a student at Penn Yan Middle School. Extra counselors are available for students and staff.
Investigators traced the fire to a mechanical failure inside a refrigerator. It started in the bottom section, near the wiring and compressor.
Fire crews from Benton, Himrod, and Dundee assisted on scene.
Penn Yan Police say everyone involved did everything they could to save the victims. Their thoughts are with the family and community.
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