Flames erupted in a Milwaukee family’s home on Sept. 24 and claimed the life of a 12-year-old boy attempting to rescue his younger brothers.
“Last night we lost a Lil brave [boy], our grandson Lil Adrian,” June Cross, the victim’s grandmother wrote on Facebook.
Adrian Cross died Monday night after becoming trapped by raging flames on the second floor of the home, Fox 6 reported.
(photo credit: Fox 6 screenshot)
Officials said the cause of the fire is still under investigation and there were no other injuries.
As blazing flames engulfed the family’s home, Adrian went back in the house to save his siblings.
“He went in to get his brothers,” June told the news station. “That’s what he was trying to do.”
The 12-year-old had no idea that his all of his 10 family members — six adults and four children — had made it to safety.
“All of a sudden, [the family] started screaming,” June recounted.
The victim’s grandmother mourned the lost of her grandson and wrote, “He [tried] to save his Lil brother’s in fire that took his life [and] it’s hurting the family right now…and we know the LORD has Him. We love you sweetheart.”
Milwaukee Fire Chief Mark Rohlfing said fire officials were “on the scene in three minutes,” but “unfortunately, the fire was too far along.”
Rohlfing visited the neighborhood on Tuesday afternoon following the tragedy. He encouraged families to have working smoke detectors and a fire evacuation plan.
“Talk about, ‘How do I get out of a room if there is a fire?'” said the fire chief. “‘What are my two ways out?’ Think about having a meeting place outside.”
The Red Cross is currently aiding the family who say they’re relying on their faith to help them through hard times.
“Through God, because that is the only strength we’ve got,” said June. “I know God has better plans for all of us.”
