Dolores Aughe, Sam Aughe Obituary, Death – Authorities in Crete, Nebraska, have released the names of the three victims who tragically lost their lives in a devastating house fire that occurred on Wednesday evening. According to Crete Police Chief Gary Young, the victims have been identified as 74-year-old Dolores Aughe and 73-year-old Sam Aughe. The third victim, a young boy who was just 5 years old, has not been publicly named out of respect for the family and privacy considerations. Autopsies for all three victims were still underway as of Friday morning, as officials continue to work on confirming details surrounding their deaths.
Emergency services were called to the scene of the fire at around 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday. The blaze broke out in a two-story house located near 16th Street and Oak Avenue in Crete. The situation quickly escalated, prompting a large response from multiple emergency departments. The Crete Volunteer Fire Department was first on the scene, with assistance provided by the Crete Police Department and the Saline County Sheriff’s Office. Given the intensity of the fire, additional support was requested, leading to the Wilber Volunteer Fire Department joining the effort to help control the situation.
When firefighters arrived, the home was already engulfed in flames. Crews wasted no time in entering the burning structure in an effort to rescue those trapped inside. During their search and rescue operation, firefighters were able to pull two individuals from the home. Life-saving efforts were immediately initiated, and the two victims were rushed to the hospital for treatment. Unfortunately, despite the efforts of emergency responders, both victims later died from their injuries. A third person was found inside the home shortly after and was pronounced dead at the scene.
In a small glimmer of hope amidst the tragedy, a woman in her late 20s managed to escape the burning house on her own. She was able to get out safely before firefighters arrived, avoiding the fate that befell the other occupants of the house.
Firefighters from Crete, Wilber, and other nearby departments worked tirelessly to bring the fire under control and eventually extinguished the flames. Chief Young praised the heroic actions of the first responders, noting that they acted bravely and did everything within their power to rescue those inside the burning home. He commended their courage, dedication, and quick response in the face of a life-threatening situation.
As investigators work to determine what sparked the deadly blaze, early findings suggest that the fire may have started on a partially enclosed porch attached to the house. Chief Young indicated that a propane grill might have been the source of the fire, though a definitive cause has not yet been established. The Nebraska State Fire Marshal’s Office is leading the investigation to determine the exact circumstances that led to the tragedy.
Several other local agencies also played a role in responding to the incident. These included paramedics from the Crete Area Medical Center, Crete Public Works, and Black Hills Energy, all of whom provided critical support during the emergency response.
The incident has left the small community of Crete reeling with grief and sadness. The loss of three lives, including that of a young child, has deeply affected residents and first responders alike. The Crete Police Department and Fire Department have expressed their condolences to the families impacted by this heartbreaking event.
As investigations continue, officials are also emphasizing the importance of fire safety and prevention. This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of how quickly a fire can spread and the dangers associated with outdoor cooking equipment such as propane grills, especially when used near or on enclosed or partially enclosed structures.
The efforts of local firefighters and emergency personnel have not gone unnoticed. Chief Young reiterated that the firefighters put their own lives at risk to save others, highlighting their bravery and commitment to the community. Their fast response and willingness to enter a burning structure demonstrated their dedication to protecting and serving the people of Crete.
The community now waits for the results of the ongoing investigation by the Nebraska State Fire Marshal’s Office, which will hopefully provide more clarity about how this devastating fire began. In the meantime, thoughts and prayers continue to pour in for the victims’ family members as they cope with the profound loss of their loved ones.
As Crete begins the healing process after this tragic incident, the city’s emergency responders are being recognized for their heroic efforts in the face of unimaginable circumstances. While the loss is immeasurable, the bravery shown by first responders serves as a testament to their unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of their community.
