A fire broke out Wednesday evening at an assisted living home in Clinton, claiming the lives of two elderly people.
Firefighters from several area departments responded to the blaze at Brookdale Senior Living just after 5 p.m. By 10 p.m., the fire was under control, and emergency personnel were working to account for all residents. WAPT reported that Hinds County Coroner Jeramiah Howard later announced that an 81-year-old woman and an 82-year-old man had died as a result of the fire.
Their identities had not been released as of Thursday morning.
Brookdale Senior Living issued a statement during the fire, expressing devastation over the incident and saying it was working to provide resources to residents and staff.
“We are devastated by the fire at our community,” Brookdale Senior Living officials said. “Our hearts are with all our residents, their families, and our associated during this incredibly difficult time.
“Brookdale’s immediate priority is supporting our community and providing continued care to our residents. We also are actively working to contact family members and loved ones to provide them with information and resources.”
Gov. Tate Reeves also addressed the fire, calling it “truly an awful situation” and asking for prayers for those affected.
Families of Brookdale Senior Living residents seeking information can go to Morrison Heights Baptist Church, where evacuated residents were relocated, or call (601) 926-1224 to speak with a Brookdale representative.
The cause of the fire remains unclear. Clinton city leaders are scheduled to provide additional information during a press conference Thursday morning.
