Newberry County is reeling from a devastating tragedy after a house fire early Friday morning took the lives of two residents, leaving the community in deep sorrow. The fire broke out around 6:30 a.m. on Windsong Hill Drive, prompting urgent calls to emergency dispatchers. Firefighters, along with law enforcement, rushed to the scene, but the intensity of the blaze created a nightmarish situation for first responders.
The Newberry County Sheriff’s Office reported that when fire crews arrived, they were faced with fierce flames that made it impossible to enter the home immediately. Despite their swift and courageous efforts to control the fire, the damage was extensive. Once conditions allowed responders to enter the home, they tragically discovered the bodies of two residents inside.
SUPPORT THE FAMILY - GOD BLESS YOU
The victims have been identified as 44-year-old April Nicole Sutton Long and 73-year-old Leroy Seegers, both from the nearby Silverstreet community. Their untimely deaths have left family, friends, and neighbors grappling with the shock of the loss. The community is waiting for autopsies, scheduled for next week, in hopes of understanding the full circumstances surrounding the fire.
Authorities have confirmed that two other residents who lived in the home were not present during the blaze, providing a small bit of relief amidst the heartache. Silverstreet Fire Chief Michael Parker described the scene as “heartbreaking,” noting the profound emotional impact not only on the families but also on the first responders who battled the flames in a desperate attempt to save lives.
State and local investigators are now focused on determining the cause of the fire. They are combing through the damage, speaking with witnesses, and awaiting the results of the autopsies to piece together what led to this devastating event. The Newberry County community, though in mourning, remains committed to supporting the victims’ families and seeking answers.
In the wake of the tragedy, neighbors have rallied together, offering comfort, prayers, and assistance to the surviving residents and the families of April Sutton Long and Leroy Seegers. Friends and loved ones remember both victims for their kindness, generosity, and the positive impact they had on those around them. As Newberry County continues to mourn, the community stands united, honoring the lives lost and supporting those left behind in their grief.