Fire in Troy House Today-Three Family Members Killed, Teen Son Survives Devastating Blaze
A devastating house fire in Troy, New York, claimed the lives of three members of the same family, leaving their surviving teenage son and the wider community facing an unimaginable loss. The September 27, 2026, blaze destroyed part of the family home on 13th Street and prompted a major emergency response involving firefighters from Troy and neighbouring communities.
The victims were identified as Dominick Rizzo Jr., 37, his fiancée, Alicia Ruefle, 39, and their 11-year-old daughter, Abigail Rizzo. Their 13-year-old son, Dominick Rizzo III, managed to escape the burning property by jumping from a second-floor window.
Firefighters Race to Rescue Trapped Family
Emergency crews were dispatched shortly after 9:35 p.m. on Sunday, September 27, following reports of a heavily burning house with people trapped inside.
Firefighters arriving at the property encountered dangerous conditions as flames spread through the residence. Crews entered the building and located the family members who remained trapped inside.
Dominick Rizzo Jr., Alicia Ruefle and Abigail were rescued and transported for medical treatment. Despite the efforts of emergency responders and medical personnel, all three subsequently died from their injuries.
The rescue operation involved firefighters from Troy and surrounding departments, including crews from Watervliet and the Watervliet Arsenal. Two Troy firefighters also sustained minor burn injuries while responding to the blaze.
Teenage Son Escapes Through Second-Floor Window
The family’s 13-year-old son survived after escaping through a second-floor window as the fire spread through the house.
His escape was aided by neighbours and people who rushed to help after hearing calls for assistance. Among those who came forward was Will Roberson, a student at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, who helped the teenager reach safety.
The boy was subsequently surrounded by relatives and members of the community as arrangements were made to support him following the devastating loss.
Reports about his medical condition have varied. Local coverage indicated that he escaped without serious physical injuries, while other reporting described him as hospitalized. His survival nevertheless represents a significant part of the story amid the family’s tragic losses.
Investigation Into the Cause of the Fire
The New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control is investigating the circumstances surrounding the blaze.
Troy Fire Chief Richard Cellucci said preliminary findings suggested that the fire originated on the first floor of the home. Officials also raised concerns about the apparent absence of working smoke detectors, although the investigation was continuing to establish the circumstances.
Seven family dogs also died in the fire, while three survived. Firefighters managed to prevent the blaze from spreading to neighbouring homes.
Troy Community Mourns the Rizzo Family
The deaths deeply affected the Troy community, particularly students, families and employees connected to the local school district. Both surviving and deceased children were associated with the district, prompting officials to make grief counselling available to students and staff.
Mayor Carmella Mantello expressed sorrow over the family’s loss and acknowledged the difficult road ahead for the surviving child and relatives.
The tragedy has also renewed attention to residential fire safety, particularly the importance of functioning smoke alarms and having an effective escape plan.
As the investigation continues, the surviving teenager and extended family face the difficult process of rebuilding their lives after losing three loved ones.