Fatal New Year's Eve House Fire in Lakeland Leaves One Dead, Another Injured

House Fire Tragedy in Lakeland

• 💔 A devastating house fire occurred on Bendelo Drive in Lakeland, resulting in the death of one person and injuries to another.
• 🚨 The fire broke out on New Year's Eve morning, with a neighbor calling 911 after noticing smoke and flames.

Neighbor's Account and Victim Details

• 💬 Neighbor Anne Ganon described seeing the glass broken and smoke pouring from her friend's home.
• 🏠 The couple living in the home were described as great neighbors who took good care of their property.
• ⚠️ The wife, who suffered from dementia, was found dead in the back bedroom where the fire originated.

Rescue Efforts and Investigation

• 👨‍🚒 The husband managed to escape the fire but was unable to re-enter to save his wife.
• 🚁 He was transported to the hospital via helicopter with burns and other injuries.
• 🔍 The Polk County Sheriff's Office is handling the death investigation, while the state fire marshal's office is investigating the cause of the fire.
• 😔 The incident is particularly tragic occurring around the holiday season, with the community offering support to the family.