A charred rowhome in Philadelphia’s North Lambert Street area became the scene of a devastating fire that left a 70‑year‑old woman’s body inside, officials say.
The blaze, which lit up the skies north of La Salle University earlier Tuesday, has sparked an investigation into the identity of the missing resident.
Authorities are working to determine whether the body belongs to the missing 70‑year‑old Denise Green.
Fire crews reported that up to five rowhomes on the 5700 block of North Lambert Street sustained damage, with the most severe destruction occurring in the house where the fire is believed to have started.
The fire erupted in the afternoon, and smoke poured over the neighborhood, creating a dramatic scene captured by local cameras.
The incident prompted an immediate emergency response from Philadelphia Fire Department units.
A firefighter sustained injuries during the operation and was reported to be in stable condition, according to officials.
The injuries were not life‑threatening, and the firefighter received medical attention on the scene.
No other injuries were reported among the responding personnel.
Investigators were unable to enter the damaged home for most of the day because of the hazardous conditions.
Once the flames were extinguished, crews reinforced the structure to allow safe entry.
This precaution enabled forensic teams to recover evidence and remains from the interior.
NBC10’s SkyForce10 drone hovered over the fire at approximately 11:15 a.m., providing live footage of smoke pouring from the homes as firefighters worked to extinguish the flames.
The aerial view highlighted the extent of the damage and the challenges faced by the rescue teams.
The footage was shared with the public to illustrate the severity of the blaze.
On Wednesday morning, fire officials confirmed that the remains belonged to 70‑year‑old Denise Green, a resident who had been missing since the blaze erupted.
Green had been reported missing by family members before the fire, and her body was identified through forensic analysis.
The confirmation was a key moment in the investigation, bringing closure to a tragic event.
Family members described Green as a beloved mother who was deeply loved by her community.
They expressed hope that she had not been inside the house when the fire began.
Their statements were shared with NBC10 to provide context for the tragedy.
“Her older son, he was in the home,” said family member Denisha Addison. “He smelled smoke he got out. He did not go upstairs because he was not even aware she was even there. So, it could be a possibility that she have left. But we’ve been calling her, calling her phone and no one has answered yet.”
The American Red Cross reported that it is assisting 12 people affected by the fire.
The organization is providing emergency support and resources to those displaced by the incident.
Its involvement underscores the broader community response to the disaster.
Officials have not yet released information about the cause of the fire, and investigations are ongoing.
NBC10 is continuing to gather details as they become available.
The story remains a developing news event, with updates expected as new information emerges.
Key Takeaways
- The body found in the charred rowhome is identified as 70‑year‑old Denise Green, who had been missing since the blaze.
- Up to five rowhomes on North Lambert Street were damaged, with the most severe damage in the house where the fire started.
- A firefighter was injured but remains in stable condition, and 12 people are receiving aid from the American Red Cross.
The tragic fire has left the Philadelphia community in mourning and has prompted a thorough investigation into its origins.
As authorities continue to work, the city remains vigilant in supporting those impacted by the disaster.
