4-y-o survivor of Mountain View Avenue house fire taken in by CPFSA

The Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA) says the four-year-old boy that survived the house fire at Mountain View Avenue last Saturday is now in their custody.

The fire which destroyed the home and belonging of the affected families but also claimed the life of a one-year-old toddler.

CPFSA CEO Laurette Adams-Thomas said, "Our first priority is to ensure the safety and well-being of the child. He is receiving care and will continue to be supported through counselling and therapeutic services to help him process this tragedy."

“In addition to the anguish this family may be feeling from losing all their belongings in a fire, the pain of losing a child is simply unimaginable, and we are committed to helping the family navigate this difficult time, with counselling being a critical part of that support,” she continued.

The organisation will assist affected families with replacing essential items that were destroyed such as birth certificates and school supplies.

The agency says this devastating incident underscores the importance of parents and guardians exercising heightened vigilance in child care.

Adams-Thomas urged parents to never leave children unattended without a responsible adult and to eliminate their access to dangerous items, including lighters, matches, and other potential hazards.

“Children are naturally curious, but that curiosity can turn deadly if proper supervision is not in place. This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the responsibilities we bear as caregivers. We must create a safe environment for our children, and ensure they are protected at all times,” she said.

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