Tragedy struck a California family when a house fire, reportedly ignited by a Christmas tree, claimed the lives of two young sisters. The devastating incident occurred on December 14 in Barstow, a town situated approximately two hours northeast of Los Angeles.
The victims, identified as 2-year-old Aalijah Isom and 7-year-old Annie Isom, succumbed to injuries sustained in the fire. Aalijah passed away on the night of the incident, while Annie lost her life a few days later after receiving medical care at a local hospital, according to information provided by the Barstow Fire Department.
A third sibling, rescued by firefighters, was treated and successfully resuscitated by emergency responders en route to the hospital. Barstow Fire Battalion Chief Cory Cisneros confirmed these details in a statement to USA TODAY on Thursday.
The heart-wrenching loss of Aalijah and Annie has left their parents, Charmon and Akeem Isom, grappling with profound grief. The family shared their memories and expressions of love for the departed sisters in a GoFundMe page. Describing their family bond as a “tapestry of love, inseparable and woven with unconditional affection,” the Isom family expressed the deep impact of the tragic incident on their lives.
On the night of the fire, Charmon and Akeem reportedly witnessed their live Christmas tree engulfed in flames, as recounted to ABC 7 News. Despite the harrowing experience, attempts to reach out to the grieving parents for further comments were unsuccessful as of Thursday.
Confirming the presence of a Christmas tree in the living room of the home, Battalion Chief Cisneros shed light on a potential connection between the festive decoration and the tragic fire.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential hazards associated with live Christmas trees, especially when safety measures are not strictly adhered to. While the joyous tradition of decorating homes for the holiday season is a cherished practice, ensuring the safety of such decorations is paramount.
Local authorities and fire departments often issue safety guidelines for holiday decorations, emphasizing the importance of keeping trees well-watered to prevent them from becoming fire hazards. Additionally, families are encouraged to place Christmas trees away from heat sources, such as fireplaces and heaters, and to promptly dispose of trees once they show signs of drying out.
The Barstow community and beyond have expressed condolences and support for the Isom family during this difficult time. The GoFundMe campaign, initiated to assist the family with funeral expenses and other needs, has garnered contributions from individuals deeply moved by the tragedy.
As investigations into the precise cause of the fire continue, the heartbreaking incident serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the necessity of prioritizing safety, particularly during festive seasons marked by traditions that bring families together.