Say Fireplace Went Out Of Control
The new year got off to a horrifying start for an East Elmhurst family after a fire in their home last Wednesday morning, Jan. 1, claimed the life of a 7-year-old boy and severely injured the victim’s brother, authorities reported.
Law enforcement sources said Christopher Miller, 7, died from injuries sustained in a quick-moving, one-alarm fire that broke out in his home on 90th Street between 31st and 32nd avenues just before 9:30 a.m. last Wednesday.
Reportedly, Miller was inside the home with other family members and houseguests when a fire was started in a fireplace. Moments later, according to published reports, the fire could not be contained and spread throughout the structure.
Multiple Fire Department units raced to the scene along with the 115th Precinct and EMS units.
In searching the residence, law enforcement sources noted, first responders found Miller unconscious and unresponsive. According to published reports, he collapsed near a stairwell while attempting to get out.
Paramedics pronounced the child dead at the scene; his body was removed to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner to determine the cause of death.
Miller’s 13-year-old brother, meanwhile, suffered extensive burns and was rushed by EMS to Cornell Medical Center, where he was listed in stable condition.
The exact cause of the blaze is under investigation by FDNY marshals, Fire Department sources said.
