The scene of a fatal fire at the Knights Inn in Endwell remained active into the afternoon on June 22, as investigators and local agencies continue to look for answers, assess the damage and determine the extent of the crisis.
As of 3:30 p.m., New York State Police confirmed six fatalities as a result of the blaze, which was first reported at 6 a.m. and continued to burn throughout the morning.
Troopers said the identities of the victims will be released at a later time.
A Red Cross volunteer at the scene at about 10 a.m. estimated there were approximately 37 households displaced, including 73 people. The motel has been used as emergency housing by the Broome County Department of Social Services to shelter unhoused people.
Members of the Endwell Fire Department first responded to the fire at about 6 a.m. Heavy black smoke was visible in front of the building and flames were showing from the rear of the building. The fire spread rapidly, according to state police.
At 1 p.m., Broome County Executive Jason Garnar posted a statement on Facebook saying the investigation into the fire is ongoing and additional information will be released as it becomes available.
“Our first priority is the safety and well-being of everyone affected, while ensuring emergency responders have the resources they need as this situation continues to unfold,” he said. “I want to thank the firefighters, law enforcement officers, EMS personnel, and emergency management teams who responded quickly and professionally.”
How to help, where to donate
The United Way of Broome County has launched an emergency relief fund for those who were displaced by the fire and now need temporary housing, food, clothing, transportation, hygiene supplies and other “critical supports,” according to the campaign. Donations can be sent online by visiting the United Way of Broome County’s website.
Vestal United Methodist Church at 328 Main St. has opened its doors for those who have been displaced and need shelter. The Red Cross is accepting clothing and hygiene donations.
Other local businesses are also looking to help. Grover’s Transport, a Binghamton-area transportation service, is offering free rides within Broome County to those impacted by the fire. Those interested can call 607-313-0295, according to a Facebook post.
Donations of new towels, bedding, clothes, blankets, diapers, toiletries and non-perishable food items are being accepted at St. Mary’s Orthodox Church at 1907 Jenkins St. in Endicott.
Over 15 fire, EMS and other local agencies responded to the fire, including the Endwell Fire Department, Endwell EMS, Broome County EMS, New York State Police, the Union Center Fire Company, Union Volunteer EMS, the West Corners Fire Department, the Broome County Sheriff’s Office, the Vestal Fire Department, the Five Mile Point Fire Department, the Binghamton Fire Department, Endicott EMS, the Prospect Terrace Fire Department, the Endicott Fire Department, New York State Department of Transportation and NYSEG.
(This story has been updated to add new information.)
This article originally appeared on Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin: Investigators look for answers following fatal fire at Endwell motel
Reporting by Jillian McCarthy, Binghamton Press & Sun Bulletin / Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Jillian McCarthy, Binghamton Press & Sun Bulletin | USA TODAY Network
