Tonight, we hear from a man who survived the devastating East Anchorage apartment fire and he shares the heartbreaking story of his lost loved ones. The identities of the victims, a young woman and her friend from St Mary’s, have not yet been released by authorities. It was in this same apartment building that the man’s nephew, Aaron Elia, resided with his 2-year-old granddaughter, Maggie.
When the fire broke out, Elia managed to rescue Maggie and alert other residents by knocking on doors. However, he was unable to save his own daughter, Autumn, who was visiting from St Mary’s with her friend, Beverly.
Elia sustained severe burns to his back, arms, legs, neck, and face while attempting to rescue his daughter, but the heat forced him to retreat. He is currently in surgery at the Alaskan Native Medical Center for treatment. Maggie, who also suffered minor injuries, is said to be coping well despite not fully understanding her mother’s absence. To support the family during this difficult time, fundraisers have been set up.
Funerals for both women will take place in St Mary’s..
