William Swincicki, Michelle Terwilliger Obituary, Death – Two people tragically lost their lives in a house fire in Cleveland’s Broadway-Slavic Village neighborhood early Sunday morning. The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner’s Office identified the victims as 57-year-old William Swincicki and 55-year-old Michelle Terwilliger, a married couple who had been together since 2010.
The Cleveland Division of Fire was called to a 1½-story home on East 52nd Street, just south of Fleet Avenue, shortly after midnight. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy flames consuming the first floor and the front porch of the residence. Fire crews immediately began search and rescue efforts, locating Swincicki and Terwilliger on the second floor. Both were found in critical condition and were transported to MetroHealth Medical Center, where they were later pronounced dead.
Fire officials noted that hoarding conditions inside the home significantly complicated both the search and the firefighting efforts. The clutter obstructed pathways and made it difficult for firefighters to navigate through the house, slowing rescue operations and hampering attempts to control the fire. Despite these challenges, no firefighters were reported injured during the incident. Damage to the home has been estimated at approximately $150,000.
Investigators at the scene also reported that no working smoke alarms were present when firefighters arrived. The absence of functioning alarms likely delayed detection of the fire and reduced the time Swincicki and Terwilliger had to escape. In response, the Cleveland Division of Fire reminded residents that free smoke alarms are available through the Red Cross and can be installed by Cleveland firefighters. Those in need of a smoke alarm installation can contact the fire department at 216-361-5535 to schedule the service.
The fire department emphasized the importance of smoke alarms as a crucial safety measure in preventing fatalities during residential fires. The tragic loss of Swincicki and Terwilliger serves as a reminder of the dangers that hoarding conditions and lack of working alarms can pose to residents.
Officials are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fire, including the cause and the factors that may have contributed to its severity. At this time, the fire remains under active investigation, with authorities working to determine whether any accidental or other causes led to the blaze.
Neighbors and community members have expressed shock and sadness over the deaths of Swincicki and Terwilliger. The couple, married for more than a decade, were well-known in the neighborhood, and their sudden passing has left a profound impact on those who knew them. The Cleveland Division of Fire has highlighted that this incident demonstrates the critical importance of fire safety precautions, including properly functioning smoke detectors and maintaining clear pathways within homes to allow for safe evacuation.
In addition to the tragedy for the family and friends, the fire has drawn attention to the broader risks posed by hoarding conditions in residential settings. Firefighters often face additional hazards when entering homes cluttered with excessive belongings, as such conditions can impede movement, obscure exits, and increase the spread of fire. This incident underscores the dual dangers of fire and physical obstructions within homes.
The Cleveland Division of Fire continues to work alongside investigators to determine the full circumstances surrounding the fire and to offer guidance to the community on prevention measures. Meanwhile, residents are urged to check that smoke alarms are functional, maintain clear escape routes in their homes, and reach out to local resources for assistance in ensuring fire safety.
