Sheriff IDs 2 children killed in Kalispell fire
Investigators stand at the scene of a fatal house fire on East California Street in Kalispell on Wednesday, Nov. 18. (Casey Kreider/Daily Inter Lake)
Two young children have been identified as the victims of a fatal structure fire Wednesday in Kalispell.
According to the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office, 2-year-old Deeana Bass and 3-year-old Ryker Bass were killed in the fire on the 700 block of E. California Street in Kalispell. Both children were transported to the Montana State Crime Lab for further investigation.
“This incident shocked our community and our first responders,” Sheriff Brian Heino stated. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family.”
The Kalispell Fire Department issued a press release Friday afternoon, stating the fire-cause determination investigation has been performed mutually by the Kalispell Fire Department, Kalispell Police Department and the Montana State Fire Marshal Office investigators.
"This incident was deemed accidental, however, remains undetermined as the fire cause," the release stated.
Kalispell Fire was dispatched to the blaze at 12:57 a.m. on Wednesday. Upon arrival no fire was visible, with a small amount of smoke showing.
Fire crews made entry and when completing their primary search of the smaller trailer home found three occupants. All three individuals were transported to Kalispell Regional Medical Center via ambulance and two were pronounced dead.
The fire primarily was contained to the front room of the trailer. It had mostly burned out and was readily extinguished when crews arrived.
The structure is deemed a total loss, with fire and heavy smoke damage, Kalispell Fire Department said.