With profound sorrow, the Essex community mourns the heartbreaking loss of Sophia Rivera-Cortes, a six-month-old infant who passed away following a tragic dwelling fire Tuesday evening.
At approximately 6:56 p.m., emergency crews from the Baltimore County Fire Department responded to reports of a residential fire in the 1000 block of Foxcroft Lane. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy fire conditions on the first and second floors of the home, with flames spreading to a neighboring residence.
Firefighters bravely entered the dwelling, where they located Sophia. Despite their efforts, she was found deceased at the scene. An adult female and two children were able to escape the home and were transported to Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center for medical treatment. Their conditions have not been released.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and officials continue working to determine what led to the tragic incident.
Sophia’s passing marks another devastating loss as the Baltimore County Fire Department reports a troubling rise in deadly residential fires over the past two months. Fire officials urge residents to prioritize safety by ensuring working smoke alarms are installed and by taking advantage of free home fire safety inspections and smoke alarm programs.
Though her life was brief, Sophia Rivera-Cortes was deeply loved and will forever be remembered. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and all those touched by this unimaginable loss.
The community extends its deepest condolences, prayers, and support to Sophia’s loved ones during this time of mourning. May she rest in peace.
