UPDATE: A smoke detector has just saved a Wilkes-Barre family from a devastating fire that erupted this morning, November 24, 2025. The blaze broke out around 9 a.m. on Dana Street, near the intersection of Farley Lane, leading to an urgent response from local fire crews.
Firefighters faced a tough battle against the flames, with Wilkes-Barre Fire Chief Jay Delaney describing the situation as “labor-intensive” due to the “slate roof,” which complicated their efforts. “The fire was tough to compete with,” Delaney added, emphasizing the challenging conditions.
Homeowner Carolina Brito reported that the fire likely started in the back of the attic, although the exact cause remains unknown. Tragically, this incident disrupted her plans to celebrate Thanksgiving in her home. “I had the turkey in the refrigerator and everything,” Brito lamented, noting that she and her son were the only residents at the time, as her husband is currently in Florida.
Thanks to the functioning smoke alarm, the family was alerted to the fire in time. Delaney confirmed, “There was a working smoke alarm that alerted the family of the fire,” underscoring the critical role of smoke detectors in preventing tragedies.
Fire crews not only ensured the safety of the residents but also rescued a dog and a rabbit from the flames. While the home suffered significant damage, it was not destroyed, largely due to the rapid response of the firefighters. Delaney stated, “The home was badly damaged but not destroyed thanks to the work of the firefighters.”
As the community rallies around Brito and her family, officials urge residents to regularly check their smoke detectors and practice fire safety measures. The impact of this incident is a stark reminder of the importance of preparedness and vigilance in fire safety.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the fire, and updates are expected as the situation develops. Stay tuned for more updates on this urgent story as it unfolds.
