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Officials in Colonie are appealing for witnesses and video footage to help determine the cause of a deadly house fire that occurred on Monday (January 27). The blaze, which took place at a home on Locust Park, resulted in the deaths of three individuals and left two others with non-life-threatening injuries.
The fire broke out around 8 p.m., and firefighters from the nearby Colonie Fire Department responded quickly. Despite their efforts, the fire claimed the lives of three residents. According to WNYT, the victims were identified by family members and an employer as Tim and Katie Ryan, along with Lynn Lyons. However, official confirmation from authorities is still pending.
Fire Chief Jeff Kayser noted that the fire was exacerbated by hoarding conditions inside the home, which made it difficult for firefighters to enter and for residents to escape. The clutter, combined with strong winds, allowed the fire to spread rapidly.
Two survivors, including Tommy Lyons Jr., managed to escape the inferno. Lyons sustained second-degree burns while attempting to rescue his family members. He expressed his gratitude to the first responders and urged others to cherish their loved ones, highlighting the fire's devastating speed.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, with multiple agencies, including the Colonie Police Department, Albany County, and the State Fire Office, involved in the inquiry. Authorities are urging anyone with information, eyewitness accounts, or video footage of the incident to contact the Colonie Police Investigations Division at 518-783-2754.
As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of life and rallies to support the affected families. A GoFundMe page has been set up by Tim Ryan's employer, Premiere Transportation, to assist the family during this difficult time.