LUZERNE, Pa. — An investigation is actively underway after a devastating house fire tore through a home on Bennett Street in Luzerne Borough early Saturday morning. The blaze, reported just before 6 a.m., left behind a heavily damaged shell of a home and claimed the life of 15-year-old Connor Vest, as well as one of the family’s dogs. Three other family members who were inside at the time were rescued and transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.
The Pennsylvania State Police Fire Marshal, alongside local fire and law enforcement officials, remains on the scene working to determine what sparked the deadly fire. Police noted that an officer on patrol first spotted the flames and worked quickly to alert the occupants and evacuate neighboring houses before fire crews arrived to bring the second-alarm blaze under control.
As state investigators work to uncover the cause, neighbors and longtime friends in Luzerne Borough are focusing their energy on supporting the family during an unimaginable time. Family friends placed candles, flowers, and memorial items outside the destroyed home ahead of a community candlelight vigil held over the weekend.
To help the family cover upcoming funeral costs, ongoing medical expenses, and the total loss of their home, community members have organized an online GoFundMe campaign. Friends and neighbors say the drive is part of an outpouring of love intended to surround the family as they navigate the difficult days ahead.
