State Fire Marshal and Walker County Authorities Investigate Fatal Fire

A tragedy in north Georgia this morning—two children have died in a house fire, while 5 others including 2 adults escaped.

Sheriff Steve Wilson says it may have been a lighted candle that started a raging fire in this trailer home in a rural section of Walker county. But it will take an investigation to confirm that.

What is known as that seven people were inside when flames were spotted around 6:30 a.m.—two adults and five children.

SHERIFF STEVE WILSON, WALKER COUNTY “The father was awakened, exited the rear of the trailer, came around to the front of the trailer and broke out the window and was able to get two or three of the children out from what we understand.

Walker county deputy J.D. Holland was first on the scene. He spotted the father frantically trying to get his family out…but then, the unexpected.

SHERIFF STEVE WILSON “However, Deputy Holland did have to retreat back when the propane tank exploded and her could not go any further.”

Although the father got three children out…but there was still a 6-year old girl, and an 8-month old grandchild inside.

Walker county fire units were just arriving on the scene on Carabou Road near Chickamauga.

RANDY CAMP, WALKER CO. FIRE CHIEF “When they first arrived on the scene they had two points of entry that needed to be made. The fire was in the center, the bulk of the fire was in the center of the residence …and one team went in one window, and searched for the 6 year old. Another team went in and searched for the 8-month. So they were in opposite ends of the house from one another.”

That effort was fruitless. Despite the determination of the firefighters, the two children could not be reached.

RANDY CAMP, FIRE CHIEF “A very aggressive attack …they stayed inside until they located…and their gear took a lot of abuse ..but it held up, did what it was supposed to do. But still with exposure, they did receive some minor burns.”

One firefighter went to the hospital for treatment. He’s said to be fine.

The state fire marshal is on the scene to work with county officials in the investigation.

The Walker County Sheriff’s Office has identified the two children who died in the fire as 6 year old Nataleigh Long, and 9-month old grandchild, Jocelyn Long.

The other three children, ages 9, 7 and 4 will be hospitalized overnight for observation at Children’s Hospital.