Collin Pennell, Stephon Burdette Obituary, Death – A tragic fire in Millcreek Township early Sunday morning claimed the lives of two young men and left two others hospitalized as investigators continue to determine the cause and origin of the blaze.
Authorities identified the victims as 20-year-old Collin Pennell and 19-year-old Stephon Burdette. Erie County Coroner Lyell Cook confirmed their identities on Tuesday and stated that toxicology testing is being conducted, as is customary for all fire-related fatalities. Both young men were pronounced dead at the scene.
The fire broke out around 12:52 a.m. at a mobile home located at 2730 Ganzer Lane, just off West Ridge Road in Millcreek Township. The blaze caused extensive damage to the mobile home and also impacted a neighboring residence. Emergency responders arrived to find the home engulfed in flames.
Two other individuals, a 57-year-old man and a 57-year-old woman, were also inside the mobile home when the fire started. They were transported to UPMC Hamot for treatment. As of Tuesday, the woman remained at UPMC Hamot, while the man was transferred to a hospital in Pittsburgh, where he continued to receive medical care.
Authorities, including the Millcreek Police Department and fire marshals from the Pennsylvania State Police, are actively investigating what sparked the deadly fire. The incident marks the third fatal fire in Millcreek Township this year, raising concerns about fire safety in the community.
Fire officials are working to determine whether any contributing factors, such as electrical malfunctions or accidental causes, played a role in the fire. Investigators have not yet disclosed any preliminary findings.
Millcreek Township residents are mourning the loss of Pennell and Burdette, with neighbors expressing shock over the tragedy. The mobile home community is coming together to support the victims’ families and the two surviving individuals who remain in the hospital.
Authorities urge anyone with information about the fire to come forward as the investigation continues.