Woman killed, husband critical after house fire in Boothwyn, Delaware County

BOOTHWYN, Pa. (WPVI) -- A woman was killed and her husband critically injured in a house fire in Delaware County.

The fire started Sunday on the 2300 block of Blueball Avenue in Boothwyn, Pennsylvania.

"I actually thought the sun was setting because it was just yellow, and I went to the window and the whole side of the house was engulfed in flames," said Ruth Moton, neighbor.

Moton says she could only pray as nearly 100 firefighters rushed to rescue her neighbor who was trapped inside the now charred home.

"It's very painful especially when someone just a half hour prior to that, I saw her with her beautiful blonde hair out in the backyard with her grandchild, and then to see her on her stretcher burnt," said Moton.

"Intensive heat on the first floor, and you could feel the heat all the way across the street at the time we entered the building," said Fire Chief Michael Byrne.

Fire investigators are working to solve where and how the inferno ignited.

Officials say a woman in her 50s, who was trapped on the second floor, was found dead at the top of the steps.

Her husband, who was outside, attempted to save her, but was injured by the fast-moving flames, officials say.

He was taken to Crozer-Chester Medical Center where he is listed in critical condition.

"He's holding up. Jon is good, I mean, as good as can be expected," said Patricia Davis, family friend.

The victim's son, Jon, spoke to Action News off camera saying his family is simply trying to process yet another tragedy.

"Years ago, unfortunately, they lost their daughter to a heroin OD so I'm just praying for the family, the father, who is taking care of the grandchildren, to just get through this," said Moton.

It's unclear if the fire was accidental or intentional, but fire investigators say they're not ruling anything out and are seeking the public's help.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police.