A devastating fire ripped through a Key West, Florida, apartment building on Thursday, January 23, 2025, claiming the lives of three people, including a 7-year-old child. Amidst the tragedy, a 15-year-old girl emerged as a hero, bravely rescuing a young boy from the inferno. The Key West community is mourning the loss while celebrating the courageous act of Ashlyne Dorvil, whose quick thinking saved a life.
The Key West Fire Department and Police Department swiftly responded to the fire at 1010 Emma Street after receiving reports of a blaze engulfing the apartment building. The City of Key West Government confirmed the tragic incident in a Facebook post, detailing the devastating loss of life and injuries sustained. Three children were transported to Kendall Regional Hospital for treatment, while three others, tragically, did not survive.
According to NBC affiliate WTVJ, high school student Ashlyne Dorvil had already pulled a young boy to safety by the time firefighters arrived at the scene. Dorvil recounted the harrowing experience to WTVJ, stating that she heard a loud pop and saw the boy lying on the ground amidst the chaos. With the help of her uncle and brother, Dorvil dragged the severely burned and shaken boy out of the burning building and onto the grass.
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Despite her heroic act, Dorvil expressed remorse and a feeling of helplessness in the aftermath of the fire. “I really should’ve done more, went inside that house, just say, ‘Forget it,’ and go inside,” she lamented to WTVJ, wrestling with what is known as survivor’s guilt. This feeling of responsibility and anguish is common among individuals who survive traumatic events where others perished.
Key West Fire Chief Alan Averette acknowledged the emotional toll the tragedy has taken on his team, telling WTVJ, “It’s very tough. My guys are a bunch of strong men and women, but it’s hitting ’em hard.” The devastating nature of the fire and the loss of life, especially that of a young child, deeply impacted the first responders.
The Aftermath and Ongoing Investigation
ABC-affiliate WPLG reported that the burned building was a three-bedroom unit within a public housing complex. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered five individuals trapped inside the burning structure, according to CBS News. Authorities confirmed that the smoke detectors within the residence were functioning correctly at the time of the fire, which ignited around 7 p.m. on Thursday evening.
Neighboring residents witnessed the horrifying events unfold. Alvina Covington told CBS that she saw one boy jump from a window and a girl escape the flames. Another neighbor recalled seeing a young girl running from the building, screaming that her parents were still trapped inside. CBS reported that fire officials believe the fire originated on the lower level of the two-story building.
The three surviving children are currently receiving medical care for burns and smoke inhalation. As of Friday, one child remained in critical condition. The Red Cross and the Key West Housing Authority are working to provide housing assistance to the displaced families. The State Fire Marshal is actively investigating the cause of the fire.
Community Support and Reflection
The Key West community has rallied together to support the affected families. Donations and offers of assistance have poured in, reflecting the close-knit nature of the island community. The tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fire safety and the devastating consequences of such incidents. As the investigation continues, the community remains hopeful that the cause of the fire will be determined, potentially preventing similar tragedies in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Key West Fire
Q: What caused the Key West apartment fire?
A: The cause of the fire is still under investigation by the State Fire Marshal.
Q: How many people died in the fire?
A: Three people, including a 7-year-old child, died in the fire.
Q: Were the smoke detectors working in the apartment building?
A: Yes, officials confirmed that the smoke detectors were functioning at the time of the fire.
Q: How many people survived the fire?
A: Four people survived the fire, including three children who were taken to the hospital. One of the survivors was a young boy rescued by 15-year-old Ashlyne Dorvil
Q: What is being done to help the displaced families?
A: The Red Cross and Key West Housing Authority are providing housing assistance to the families who lost their homes in the fire. The community is also providing support through donations and offers of assistance.
