Gujarat family of three dies in Ohio motel fire; probe underway
PTC Web Desk: A family of three from Gujarat lost their lives after a fire broke out at a motel in Wooster, Ohio, where they had been living and working, according to information shared by their relatives.
The deceased have been identified as Hiteshbhai Suthar, his wife Hinaben Suthar, and their 20-year-old daughter Ishani Suthar. The family hailed from Nadiad in Gujarat's Kheda district and had moved to the United States nearly two years ago in search of better opportunities.
The tragic incident occurred in the early hours of the morning at the Econo Lodge motel, where Hiteshbhai was employed. The family was residing on the premises when the fire reportedly broke out at around 1.30 am.
According to preliminary information, the family was inside their room when the blaze began. As smoke and flames spread through the building, they reportedly contacted the motel's front desk for assistance. They were advised to stay inside the bathroom, turn on the water supply and wait for emergency responders.
Following the instructions, the family locked themselves inside the bathroom in an attempt to protect themselves from the fire and heavy smoke. However, despite rescue efforts, the blaze took time to be brought under control. Officials believe all three family members died due to suspected smoke inhalation before they could be rescued.
The exact cause of the fire has not yet been determined. Local authorities have launched an investigation to establish how the blaze started and whether any safety lapses contributed to the tragedy.
The incident has left the family's relatives and friends in Gujarat in deep shock, with many mourning the sudden loss of three members of the same household.
- With inputs from agencies
