A horrifying incident unfolded in Daytona Beach, Florida, as firefighters raced to extinguish a blaze at the Countryside Apartments early Tuesday. They discovered a woman stabbed to death inside the apartment, while her three young children were found in critical condition. Tragically, one of the children, an infant, later succumbed to their injuries at a hospital.
Authorities are treating the incident as a homicide due to the discovery of two points of origin for the fire inside the apartment. Daytona Beach Police Chief Jakari Young expressed his shock and sorrow, stating, “This is a horrific incident two days out from a holiday that centers around family.”
The mother’s identity has not been released as authorities work to notify her next of kin. The conditions of the two surviving children, aged 4 and 5, have not been provided at this time.
Law enforcement officials are currently investigating the stabbing and fire, and no suspect has been named yet. A police officer was treated for smoke inhalation, highlighting the bravery and swift response of the first responders.
The community has been deeply affected by this tragedy, and Chief Young commended the efforts of the officers, firefighters, and medical personnel involved, stating, “If it wasn’t for their actions, there probably would have been more lives lost.”
The Associated Press has contributed to this report, and updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
