Flemington, PA (February 10, 2025) – A tragic early morning fire claimed the life of an 18-year-old Clinton County resident on Sunday. The incident occurred at approximately 4:28 a.m. at a residence located at 209 High St. in Flemington.
Pennsylvania State Police, along with multiple local fire departments, responded swiftly to the structure fire. Despite their rapid arrival, the blaze had already caused significant damage, leading to a partial collapse of the building, which complicated rescue efforts.
According to reports, several occupants managed to escape the fire, but one individual remained trapped inside. Prior to the arrival of emergency personnel, two of the occupants attempted to rescue the victim but were unsuccessful due to the intense flames and structural instability. Once firefighters were able to knock down the blaze and safely enter the building, they discovered the body of Alissa Shayla DeManno, 18, who tragically did not survive.
The other occupants of the residence—Teresa Meadows, 57; Jaime Meadows, 19; and Nathan Meadows, 21—escaped the fire and survived the incident. There have been no reports of serious injuries among the survivors at this time.
The Pennsylvania State Police Fire Marshals were called to the scene to investigate the origin and cause of the fire. However, due to the extensive damage to the structure, an on-site determination could not be made. Further investigations are ongoing to uncover more details surrounding this devastating event.
Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Alissa Shayla DeManno during this incredibly difficult time.
Residential Fires in Pennsylvania
House fires remain a significant hazard across Pennsylvania, often resulting in devastating consequences for families and communities. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), residential fires account for the majority of fire-related fatalities in the United States, with many caused by factors such as electrical issues, unattended cooking, heating equipment malfunctions, and accidental ignition of flammable materials.
In smaller communities like Flemington, the impact of a house fire can be particularly profound, as neighbors often have close personal connections. The rapid response from local fire departments is crucial in these situations, but even with swift action, factors such as building materials, fire load, and structural conditions can hinder rescue efforts.
In the aftermath of such tragedies, fire investigations play a critical role in determining the cause and preventing future incidents. Pennsylvania State Police Fire Marshals are trained to analyze fire scenes for evidence of accidental or intentional causes, though extensive damage can delay or complicate these determinations.
Families affected by residential fires often face not only emotional loss but also financial strain from property damage and displacement. It is important for those impacted to seek both community support and professional guidance to navigate recovery efforts, including insurance claims and legal considerations if negligence or faulty equipment contributed to the blaze.
For more information or to receive help after a fire-related accident, contact Local Accident Reports.