Jan. 28--AKWESASNE -- A man and two children died in a house fire at Akwesasne late Sunday morning.
Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Police reported Monday that Jarius Chrisjohn, 46; Javin Chrisjohn, 5; and Hunter Chrisjohn, 3, all of 184 St. Regis Road, were killed.
Family members Michelle David, 27, and her son, Jericho Chrisjohn, 8, escaped from the burning building, police said.
INVESTIGATION
The blaze is under investigation by the State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation, Franklin County Fire Department Cause and Origin Unit and the New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control.
The Franklin County Office of Emergency Services took the 911 call reporting the fire at 10:22 a.m.
The Hogansburg Akwesasne Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched to the fire, with Mutual Aid assistance from the Bombay Volunteer Fire Department.
A crew from the Fort Covington Volunteer Fire Department was on standby at the Hogansburg Akwesasne station.
All trucks were back in service by 3:13 p.m. Sunday.
'UNIMAGINABLE LOSS'
"The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne sends its deepest condolences to the entire David family and all who have been affected by this unimaginable loss," the council said in a statement Monday afternoon.
"We ask the community to unite and offer emotional support to those most in need, in any capacity you're able to be. Our strengths as a caring, family-driven community will be most needed in the days ahead.
"A tragedy of this enormity ripples across the territory, affecting every household. We are all connected in some way.
"Akwesasne is in mourning, and we ask our neighbors and the public to be mindful and respectful of this grieving period
"Nia:wenhkowa for your understanding."
COUNSELORS AVAILABLE
Anyone with information about the fire is asked to call Tribal Police Investigator Decota Thompson at 358-9200.
The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne's Wholistic Health and Wellness Program has counselors available to meet with any community members in need.
To make an appointment, call (613) 575-2341, Ext. 3100.
Email Dan Heath:[email protected]
Copyright 2014 - The Press-Republican, Plattsburgh, N.Y.
