Investigation underway after Newark house fire claims lives of 6- and 8-year-old girls

A tragic house fire in Newark overnight claimed the lives of two young girls, officials confirmed on Sunday. The fire was reported just after midnight on Eckert Avenue, prompting an emergency response, ABC News 7 reports.
 

Upon arrival, first responders found a 6-year-old and an 8-year-old lying on the ground with severe burns. Despite efforts to resuscitate them, both girls were pronounced dead at the scene.
 

Video footage from the incident shows first responders carrying a person out on a stretcher. Newark Mayor Ras Baraka was also present, seen consoling a visibly shaken firefighter as fellow firefighters gathered around for support.
 

Earlier in the evening, the family had been celebrating a birthday, which tragically belonged to one of the victims. Officials reported that the fire started when the girls were playing with fire near a couch in a hallway. 
 

Neighbor Dalisa Anthony expressed concerns over the number of people living on the second floor of the house, stating that at least ten people resided there. She mentioned having previously called the mayor's office and code enforcement about her concerns, but her calls were dropped.
 

A woman, believed to be the mother of one or both of the victims, was seen in distress, asking where her daughters were. 
 

"Everyone is trying to process the loss of two young lives who barely had a chance to experience the world," said neighbor Shonda Simpson. Another neighbor, who lives next door, described the emotional toll of witnessing the aftermath. "It was painful, it was shocking. They were just babies. Who wouldn't feel remorse?" she said.
 

Newark Public Schools Superintendent Roger León confirmed that the girls were students in the district. "We are profoundly heartbroken by the loss of two of our beloved students following this morning's tragic fire. Our deepest condolences and prayers go out to their families during this unimaginable time of grief," he stated.
 

Counseling services will be available to students and families affected by the tragedy. The Red Cross is also assisting at least 15 people from seven families who were impacted by the fire, with more aid expected to be provided in the coming days.