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New details have emerged following a tragic fire at the Countryside Apartments in Rome that claimed the lives of two residents. The Oneida County Sheriff's Office identified the victims as 61-year-old Gary Weidmann Junior and 76-year-old Christine Teuscher. Weidmann was pronounced dead at the scene of the blaze, which occurred early Tuesday morning (December 9), while Teuscher succumbed to severe burns at Upstate Medical Center.
The fire, which displaced over 20 residents, is believed to have started in Weidmann's apartment around 4:30 a.m. Despite freezing weather conditions complicating firefighting efforts, multiple agencies, including the Rome Fire Department and water tankers from surrounding areas, responded to the emergency. The charred remains of the apartment complex were demolished later that evening.
The Red Cross is currently assisting the displaced tenants, providing shelter, mental health services, and essential medication replacements at St. Peter's Church in Rome. The McConnellsville Fire Department and Mohawk Valley Community Action Agency are collecting clothing and supplies for those affected.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, although authorities have indicated there are no signs of foul play. As the investigation continues, the community is rallying to support those impacted by the tragedy.