Fire Claims Lives of Two BU Students
Fire officials clear neighboring buildings after early morning blaze
Two Boston University students died early Saturday morning in a fire at an off-campus apartment at 21 Aberdeen St. in the Fenway, and a third student is in serious condition at Massachusetts General Hospital, according to University spokesman Colin Riley. Dean of Students Kenneth Elmore said the university is respecting a request by the parents of the victims to withhold their names.
The fire, which fire officials believe to have been accidental, started shortly after 5 a.m. and spread quickly through two apartment buildings, leaving more than a dozen people temporarily without shelter and causing at least $500,000 worth of damage. Seven of the displaced residents are Boston University students, who are currently being housed at the Holiday Inn in Brookline.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of these students and those who knew them,” Elmore said. “Our community has suffered two great losses, and I extend my deepest condolences to the students’ families and loved ones.”
Robinson Chapel, in the basement of Marsh Chapel, will be open from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, February 25, for those who wish to share thoughts about the tragedy and memories of the victims. University chaplains will be on hand to speak with students.
Counseling services are also available through the Behavioral Medicine Clinic at Student Health Services. Students may speak with a member of the counseling staff by calling (617) 353-3569 or by going to 881 Commonwealth Avenue. Residence hall directors and resident assistants from the Office of Residence Life are also available at our campus residences, and can be contacted by calling or visiting a residence hall office.
Art Jahnke can be reached at jahnke@bu.edu.