A heartbreaking tragedy has left the Cortlandt Manor community mourning after two teenagers died in a devastating house fire early Wednesday morning. Authorities identified the victims as Alina Toone and Jeremiah Toone, the children of Westchester County Correction Officer Gregory Toone.
The fatal fire broke out at a home on Sherwood Road in the Town of Cortlandt during the early morning hours. According to New York State Police, troopers were dispatched to the scene around 2:27 a.m. after receiving reports of a residential structure fire.
When firefighters arrived, officials said the home was already engulfed in flames. A mother and another occupant managed to escape the burning residence before emergency crews arrived and informed firefighters that two teenagers were still trapped inside the home.
Firefighters quickly launched a rescue operation, using ground ladders to reach the second floor and breaking windows to gain entry into the heavily damaged house. Both teenagers were removed from the residence and immediately received CPR at the scene after being found in cardiac arrest.
Emergency responders transported the victims to nearby hospitals in an effort to save their lives. Despite extensive life-saving measures, both teenagers later died from their injuries, officials confirmed.
Westchester County District Attorney Susan Cacace released an emotional statement following the tragedy, expressing condolences to the Toone family and the wider law enforcement community.
“I am heartbroken to learn of the passing of Alina and Jeremiah Toone, children of Westchester County Correction Officer Gregory Toone, in a house fire this morning,” Cacace said.
“This unbelievable tragedy is every parent’s worst nightmare,” she added. “Mr. Toone and his family remain in our thoughts during this extremely difficult time, and I pray for the recovery of his beloved wife, Yenny. Our extended law enforcement family will be here for them in any way they need. May Alina and Jeremiah rest in peace.”
The tragic deaths have deeply impacted both the local community and members of law enforcement across Westchester County. Friends, neighbors, and supporters have continued offering prayers and condolences to the grieving family as they cope with the unimaginable loss.
Investigators with New York State Police and local fire agencies are continuing to examine the cause of the fire. Early reports suggest the blaze may have been accidental and possibly electrical in nature, although officials have not yet determined an official cause.
The investigation remains ongoing.
