The tragic incident that unfolded in Sandgate on New Year’s Day has left a community in mourning as the victims of a devastating house fire have been identified. Vermont State Police disclosed in a recent press release that the two individuals who lost their lives in the blaze were a young mother and her newborn son.
Nicole Grogan, a 22-year-old woman, and her 12-day-old son, Oliver Stratton, were the victims of this harrowing event, as confirmed by autopsies conducted at the Chief Medical Examiner’s Office in Burlington. The heart-wrenching loss of such young lives has sent shockwaves through the small town of Sandgate and beyond.
First Responders to the Scene
The Arlington Fire Department swiftly arrived at the residence on Chunks Brook Road in the Bennington County town after receiving reports of a “heavy fire” engulfing the home around 11:30 a.m. on that fateful day. The valiant efforts of the firefighters were unfortunately not enough to save the lives of Nicole Grogan and her newborn son.
Survivors Fighting for Recovery
Amidst the tragedy, there is a glimmer of hope as two survivors of the fire are currently receiving medical care in New York. Their journey to recovery will undoubtedly be a long and arduous one, but the resilience they have shown in the face of such adversity is truly commendable.
Cause of the Blaze Under Investigation
As the community grapples with this devastating loss, authorities are diligently working to determine the cause of the fire that claimed the lives of Nicole Grogan and Oliver Stratton. The investigation into the tragic incident is ongoing, with the hope of shedding light on what led to this catastrophic event.
The impact of this tragic fire resonates far beyond the borders of Sandgate, serving as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment with our loved ones. As we come together to mourn the loss of Nicole Grogan and her newborn son, let us also hold onto hope and support those who are still fighting for their lives in the aftermath of this devastating blaze.
