Before sunrise today, a fast-moving fire tore through a duplex on the 400 block of Hancock Street in Clymer Borough, killing three people and two family dogs and leaving a community reeling.
The blaze, reported just after 4 a.m., engulfed both sides of the multi-family home as volunteer fire companies from across Indiana County raced to the scene. One adult and two children were killed, while several other residents managed to escape and are now staying with relatives.
According to CBS Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania State Police said first responders confirmed the three fatalities and that multiple occupants were able to get out of the burning building. Troopers also confirmed that two dogs died in the fire. Officials have not yet released the victims' names, citing the need to notify family members first.
Local dispatch logs show that Indiana County 911 sent crews to 420 Hancock Street at around 4:14 a.m. The structure was later declared a total loss. WCCS reported that the Indiana County Coroner's Office, Citizens' Ambulance and the county Emergency Management team all responded to the scene. Multiple volunteer departments, including Clymer, Cherryhill Township, Commodore and Hope, assisted in battling the flames.
Officials: Cause Under Investigation
The Pennsylvania State Police Troop A Fire Marshal Unit has been assigned to determine where and how the fire started. Investigators said there is currently no indication of foul play. WDAD reports that state police expected to issue a formal news release later in the day. The coroner and local crews remained at the scene through the morning as the investigation continued.
Scene And Damage
Photographs from the scene show heavy flames and sections of the building collapsed, with charred debris scattered around the property. Reporters described the duplex as severely damaged. WPXI noted that firefighters faced an aggressive knockdown when they arrived, working to bring the fire under control as quickly as possible. Emergency officials said the building is a total loss and that recovery and cleanup work was already underway.
What Comes Next
State police said the investigation remains active and asked residents to avoid the area while crews continue their work and the coroner completes on-scene duties. CBS Pittsburgh reported that authorities plan to release additional information when it becomes available. Officials said anyone with information should hold off until an official statement from the Pennsylvania State Police outlines how tips should be submitted.
