By Gina Morton
TREVORTON — A Friday afternoon fire that killed one sister and critically injured another started in the kitchen, likely near the refrigerator, a fire marshal said Monday.
What exactly caused the fire at 239 W. Shamokin St., in the Zerbe Township village of Trevorton, could not be determined, state police Fire Marshal Norm Fedder said.
Fedder, with the help of several Trevorton Fire Company members, examined the blackened and charred structure Monday morning, shoveling debris and using flashlights during the investigation. Fedder said the fire started behind the refrigerator.
The three-story home, surrounded by bright yellow “Do Not Cross” tape, halted numerous curious neighbors and passers-by, who stopped to get a look at the scene. Charred debris, including a dresser and side table, were piled on the sidewalk outside the gutted building. Siding melted during the blaze, but two small American flags remained hanging on an adjacent porch.
Gertrude Koppenheffer, 95, died in the fire. She was found in the kitchen area of the home. Her sister, Pat Miller, 77, was listed in critical condition Monday at Lehigh Valley Hospital. She reportedly has second-degree burns.
Fedder said they had insurance coverage. Damage is estimated at $110,000.
