3-year-old girl becomes 2nd to die from southern Utah fire

3-year-old girl becomes 2nd to die from southern Utah fire

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WASHINGTON, Washington County — A 3-year-old girl died Wednesday, becoming the second victim of a Monday night fire at a mobile home in Washington.

A 60-year-old man also died in the blaze that critically injured the child's mother.

City officials still have not released the names of the three people, but friends and family members identified the man who died as Richard Kirkland, and are hailing him a hero for running into the burning home in an attempt to save others he didn't even know.

"Richard Kirkland laid down his life for the safety of others. He bravely ran into a burning building to save a mother and her child," according to a GoFundMe page* set up to help raise money for funeral expenses.

Police said they learned Wednesday that the young child also died, according to Washington police spokesman Ed Kantor.

The woman who started the GoFundMe page for Kirkland identified herself as his niece. She said any money collected beyond the cost of funeral expenses will be given to the woman, who remained hospitalized Wednesday in critical condition, to help cover her expenses.

"We are so saddened by his loss, but we know he is in a better place," Kassie Pitts wrote.

Washington firefighters were called about 7 p.m. Monday to 434 E. Angie Lane. Upon arrival, they found the residence "fully engulfed" in flames, Kantor said.

Kirlkand was killed, and a 27-year-old woman and her 3-year-old daughter had to be rescued. The woman and toddler were flown by medical helicopter from Dixie Regional Medical Center to University Medical Center of Southern Nevada in Las Vegas.

Investigators have not determined what started the fire, though Washington Fire Chief Matt Evans said they believe the fire started on the inside of the structure.

Friends on social media say Kirkland was on his way home from work Monday when he saw the flames.

"Richard was a man who had his many ups and downs, but he always remained a very selfless man who especially loved children. Many young children called him their grandpa. He holds a special place in the heart of every person he knew, especially his family members. He died doing exactly what he was known for — helping others without expectation. He was a kind and gentle man who never asked for thanks," according to the GoFundMe Page.

Many on social media since Monday night have called Kirkland a hero.

"This is the man who gave his life to try to rescue people from a local fire. Hero!" wrote one man on Facebook.

"This beyond generous and selfless man gave the ultimate sacrifice this week; he gave his life trying to save a young woman and her 3-year-old from a house fire. My heart is so heavy to think of the price he paid just being a good person," another woman posted.

Kirkland was a St. George native who was the manager at Washington’s St. Helen's Restaurant for years, according to the Spectrum newspaper.

The restaurant posted on its Facebook page: "Today we mourn the loss of our team leader and friend of 15 years. Richard Kirkland died last night doing what he does — trying to help others putting everyone before himself. He entered a burning home in attempt to save the lives of people inside. Rest in peace Richard Kirkland. We love you and will never forget your part in our legacy at St Helen's."

A GoFundMe* account has been set up to help pay for the medical expenses for Tereasa and Adallynn Cox.

*KSL.com does not assure that the money deposited to the account will be applied for the benefit of the persons named as beneficiaries. If you are considering a deposit to the account, you should consult your own advisors and otherwise proceed at your own risk.

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