Officials: 3 killed in Kensington house fire

KENSINGTON (FOX 29) - Three people have died following after an overnight house fire in Kensington.

The fire broke out just after 4:30 a.m. on the 2900 block of Rorer Street.

Philadelphia Fire Department Commissioner Thiel says it was an "all hands" battle with 70 firefighters medics and support working the scene.

One victim was transported to Temple University Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.

Two additional victims remained inside the home after the fire was placed under control. Five feet of water filled the basement following a water main break, rendering crews unable to enter. Crews had to pump out the water first, but a significant amount of belongings posed obstacles for reentry. The bodies of the victims were later discovered in the home's basement.

The victims have been identified by friends and church family as Frances "Jocko" Hudson, his brother Jason and Jason's fiancee, Benilda "Becky" Emeric.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.