A tragic house fire in Crete, Nebraska, claimed the lives of three individuals on Wednesday evening, leaving the community in mourning. Authorities have identified the victims as 74-year-old Dolores Aughe and 73-year-old Sam Aughe. The third victim, a 5-year-old boy, has not been named out of respect for the family’s privacy. Autopsies for all three victims are still underway as investigators continue to confirm the details surrounding their deaths.
The fire broke out at approximately 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday in a two-story home located near 16th Street and Oak Avenue. The Crete Volunteer Fire Department was the first to respond, quickly joined by the Crete Police Department and Saline County Sheriff’s Office. Due to the severity of the fire, additional support was called in from the Wilber Volunteer Fire Department to assist in extinguishing the flames.
Upon arrival, firefighters found the house fully engulfed in flames. Crews immediately entered the building in a desperate attempt to rescue those trapped inside. Two victims were pulled from the burning structure and rushed to the hospital, but tragically, both later died from their injuries. A third person was found inside the home and pronounced dead at the scene. Fortunately, a woman in her late 20s was able to escape the house before firefighters arrived, avoiding the same fate as the others.
Firefighters worked tirelessly to contain the blaze, which was eventually extinguished with the help of nearby fire departments. Crete Police Chief Gary Young praised the responders for their bravery and quick action, noting that they acted heroically to save lives in an incredibly dangerous situation. Local agencies such as Crete Area Medical Center paramedics and Black Hills Energy also played critical roles in the emergency response.
The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing, with early reports suggesting that a propane grill on a partially enclosed porch may have sparked the blaze. The Nebraska State Fire Marshal’s Office is leading the investigation to determine the exact cause of the tragedy. As the investigation continues, authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant about fire safety, especially regarding outdoor cooking equipment.
This heartbreaking incident has left the Crete community in grief. The loss of a young child and two adults has affected not only the victims’ families but also the first responders who witnessed the tragic outcome. As investigations continue, thoughts and prayers are with those mourning this devastating loss.