Tragedy in Lackawanna: Mother and Young Daughter Identified as Victims in Devastating House Fire
LACKAWANNA, NY – A heart-wrenching tragedy unfolded late Tuesday night when a house fire tore through a residence on Girard Avenue, claiming the lives of Felicia Toporek, 28, and her 4-year-old daughter, Audrey Zosowski. Officials confirmed that Toporek and her daughter succumbed to injuries sustained in the fire. Two of her other children remain hospitalized.
The Lackawanna Fire Department received the emergency call at approximately 10:27 p.m., reporting a fire at 27 Girard Avenue. Upon arrival, first responders encountered a harrowing scene: heavy flames were erupting from the rear of the structure, and there were reports of people trapped inside the burning home.
With no time to spare, firefighters launched an immediate rescue operation. Amidst intense heat and smoke, crews managed to rescue a 5-year-old child from the roof of the home, an effort described by officials as both courageous and critical. Four occupants were found and pulled to safety before being transported to local hospitals for treatment.
Despite the heroic efforts of first responders, Felicia Toporek and Audrey Zosowski could not be saved. Audrey, a joyful and energetic child just shy of her fifth birthday, was described by family friends as “a little light” — curious, affectionate, and always smiling. Her mother, Felicia, was known as a devoted parent, doing everything she could to care for her children and provide them with love and stability.
Two surviving children — the 5-year-old rescued from the roof and a 1-month-old infant — are currently receiving medical care. Their conditions have not been publicly disclosed, but both remain hospitalized as of Wednesday afternoon.
Neighbors and community members are reeling from the tragic loss. “This is just heartbreaking,” said one neighbor, who watched in disbelief as flames engulfed the home. “We saw the fire trucks arrive and then the kids being brought out. It’s a nightmare.”
The home at 27 Girard Avenue is now uninhabitable, its charred remains a painful reminder of the lives lost and forever changed. The fire has left not only a physical scar on the neighborhood but also an emotional one that will take time to heal.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and officials have not yet released details about what may have started the blaze. Fire investigators, along with state and local authorities, are carefully examining the scene to determine what triggered the devastating fire and how it spread so rapidly.
In the wake of the tragedy, local organizations and community members are already rallying to support the family. Donation drives and fundraising efforts are expected to be organized to help with medical expenses, funeral costs, and the long road of recovery ahead for the surviving children.
As the community mourns, there is a shared resolve to honor the memories of Felicia and Audrey and to support those left behind. The coming days will be filled with both grief and reflection, as neighbors and loved ones come together to provide strength, comfort, and compassion.
Anyone with information related to the fire is encouraged to contact the Lackawanna Fire Department or local authorities as investigations continue.
Felicia Toporek and Audrey Zosowski leave behind not only memories cherished by family and friends but also a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of community in times of tragedy. Their lives, though cut tragically short, will not be forgotten.
