SOUTHFIELD, Mich. — A deadly house fire late Tuesday night claimed the life of a woman in her mid-60s and sent three of her family members to the hospital, leaving a Southfield neighborhood in mourning. The fire erupted around 8:20 p.m. at a home on LeeWright Avenue near 9 Mile Road and Telegraph Road, prompting an urgent response from firefighters as flames quickly overtook the residence.

The victim was identified as Jane Yaldoo, a mother of three and grandmother of one. According to the Southfield Fire Department, Yaldoo was trapped inside the home when crews arrived. Despite swift efforts to reach her, firefighters were unable to save her due to the intense conditions inside the house. She was pronounced dead at the scene, officials confirmed.

Fire Chief Joey Thorington said approximately 25 firefighters responded and were met with a structure that was already fully involved. He explained that while crews attempt search and rescue operations simultaneously with firefighting, the severity of the blaze limited what could be done. “Unfortunately, because it was so fully involved when we got here, it limited our ability to make a quick rescue,” Thorington said.

Three other family members — Yaldoo’s husband and their two adult children — were able to escape before firefighters arrived. All three were taken to area hospitals suffering from burns and smoke inhalation. Their conditions have not been released, but officials said their injuries were serious enough to require medical treatment. The family is now coping with both physical recovery and devastating loss.

Relatives described Jane Yaldoo as a kind and loving person whose death has shaken the entire family. Patrick Yaldoo, her brother-in-law, said the tragedy has left them stunned. “We’re just shocked and heartbroken,” he said. “They were very good people. We don’t understand how something like this could happen so fast.” The family is still waiting for answers about what caused the fire and why Jane was unable to escape.

Neighbors also expressed sorrow as they watched emergency crews battle the flames late into the night. One neighbor recalled seeing Jane frequently sitting outside her home during warmer months and described her as friendly and warm. Fire officials say the cause of the blaze remains under investigation. In the meantime, they are urging residents to ensure smoke detectors are working properly and to use caution with heating equipment during cold weather, as the community mourns a life lost too soon.