Tragic House Fire Claims Lives of Five Children in South Bend

SOUTH BEND — The South Bend Fire Department has identified the young victims who tragically lost their lives in a devastating house fire on Sunday night.

The residential property located at 222 LaPorte Ave. became engulfed in flames on January 21, resulting in the heartbreaking deaths of two girls, 9-year-old Davida Smith and 17-month-old Faith Smith, along with three boys identified as 10-year-old Demetis Smith, 5-year-old Deontay Smith, and 4-year-old D’Angelo Smith.

The eldest sister, 11-year-old Angel Smith, is currently in critical condition at Riley Children’s Health, as confirmed by Courtney Taylor, the hospital’s Senior Public Relations Associate. Angel’s father, David Smith, managed to escape the fire but was unable to rescue his children.

In a written statement released on Wednesday, Fire Chief Carl Buchanon called on the community to keep the Smith family in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

The fire department’s statement also mentioned that the children’s father sustained minor injuries, while two firefighters were injured while on duty.

During the search of the second floor, one firefighter fell through a hole in the floor and landed on the first floor. The firefighter was immediately transported to a local hospital for treatment and is now resting at home, undergoing further evaluations.

Another firefighter, who also suffered minor burns, received treatment and has since returned to work, according to the fire department.

The incident is currently under investigation, with South Bend fire investigators collaborating closely with the South Bend Police and investigators from the Indiana Department of Homeland Security.