MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—A grandmother and her young granddaughter died early Friday morning following a residential structure fire in Pleasant Township, local officials confirmed.
The victims have been identified as 72-year-old Joyce Eblin and 4-year-old Evelyn Harter.
Emergency crews were dispatched to 837 Marion Cardington Rd. East at approximately 3:30 a.m. on Jan. 30. Upon arrival, first responders reported heavy fire conditions throughout the home. Despite what officials described as aggressive suppression and rescue efforts, both Eblin and Harter did not survive the blaze.
The cause and origin of the fire are currently under investigation by the Ohio Division of State Fire Marshal’s Fire and Explosion Investigations Bureau (FEIB).
“Our hearts go out to the family and the entire community affected by this profound tragedy,” the Pleasant Township Fire Department said in a statement. “We are committed to a thorough investigation to provide the family with answers.”
Pleasant Township was assisted on the scene by several mutual aid partners, including fire departments from Marion Township, Fort Morrow, 1st Consolidated, Green Camp Township, Battle Run, and Marion City. The Marion County Sheriff’s Office and the Marion County Coroner also assisted at the scene.
In the wake of the tragedy, fire officials are urging residents to ensure homes are equipped with working smoke alarms. Pleasant Township residents needing assistance with smoke alarm installation can contact the department at (740) 389-6569.