Mayor: Neighbor tried to rescue baby trapped in Lebanon fire

LEBANON, Pa. (WHTM) — Four people were taken to an Allentown burn center and an infant was killed in a morning house fire in Lebanon.

The fire broke out just before 10 a.m. Friday at 1330 Brandywine Street in the city, Mayor Sherry Capello said in a media release.

A second alarm was struck moments later as city police arrived to find heavy smoke coming from the home.

A neighbor tried to make his way into the home to rescue an infant trapped on the second floor but couldn't get through the smoke and heat, nor could city police, Capello said.

Firefighters arrived on scene within minutes.

The one-year-old trapped in the home did not survive.

A 59-year-old woman was flown to Lehigh Valley Hospital – Cedar Crest in Lehigh County for treatment of burns, and three children — ages 5, 4, and 2 — were transported there as well.

"I commend the Lebanon Fire Department for their swift and professional actions," Capello said, extending thanks as well to city police, fire police, public safety inspectors, and mutual aid companies. "The City of Lebanon is fortunate to have a brave community of neighbors to call upon during our time of need. A community of first responders who come together when it matters most to protect the lives and property of others without hesitation."