Three children tragically lost their lives in a house fire in New Orleans early Wednesday morning, which was reportedly set by their father following a domestic dispute, according to the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD). The incident unfolded when a woman called 911 at 11:55 p.m. on Tuesday night, claiming that the father of her three children was threatening to burn down their home. Just ten minutes later, a fire was reported at the family’s residence.
Authorities swiftly responded to the scene and found the house engulfed in flames by 12:20 a.m. First responders managed to rescue an 8-year-old boy and a 5-year-old girl, who were rushed to the hospital. However, tragically, they were pronounced deceased about an hour later. The police later discovered the body of a 3-year-old boy inside the home.
The children’s mother was not present at the time of the incident as she was at work. The father, identified as 29-year-old Joseph Washington Sr., became the prime suspect in the case. After a manhunt, Washington Sr. was apprehended by the police. His abandoned vehicle was found partially submerged in the Mississippi River, and later intelligence led to his arrest on the I-610 Eastbound at the Elysian Fields exit. Despite attempting to flee by jumping off the overpass, he was successfully apprehended.
Washington Sr. now faces charges of three counts of second-degree murder, three counts of second-degree cruelty to a juvenile, and one count of aggravated arson. The cause of death of the children has not yet been released by the coroner.
During a press briefing, New Orleans interim Police Chief Anne Kirkpatrick expressed her sorrow and called the incident “tragic and senseless.” She assured the public that the person responsible would be held accountable.
This heartbreaking domestic violence situation has shocked the community and left many outraged. The loss of three innocent lives has prompted reflection on the devastating consequences of such disputes. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to bring justice to the victims and their grieving family.
