Deadly SW Philadelphia house fire investigated as possible arson

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- A fatal early-morning house fire in Southwest Philadelphia is being investigated as a possible arson after a young man was killed inside, authorities said.

Fire officials said the blaze broke out on the 5400 block of Regent Street around 2 a.m., filling the home with heavy smoke, as seen in doorbell video from the scene.

Four people inside the house were able to escape, but a fifth occupant remained trapped.

"There was one occupant remaining inside. Companies immediately went into service, mounting and aggressive interior attack, while simultaneously searching for the reported trapped occupant," said Anthony Bompadre, chief fire marshal with the Philadelphia Fire Department.

During the rescue effort, a man was pulled from the fire in cardiac arrest.

The 25-year-old victim was taken to Penn Presbyterian Hospital, where he died a short time later.

Neighbors later identified the victim as Raymond Bell, known as RJ.

"He was smart and he was a really good guy. I mean, like, I feel so bad for him. It hurts me really bad, man," said neighbor Terrell Bryant.

Another neighbor, Ron Sawyer, expressed sympathy for the family.

"It's sad. I pray for his family, his loved ones," Sawyer said. "But, um, all in all, life goes on. Life on life's terms."

Action News has learned that after reviewing evidence, the fire marshal and the ATF turned the case over to the Philadelphia Police Department's homicide division, which is now investigating the fire as a possible arson.

Sources say a woman has turned herself in to authorities in connection with the case. There's no word on what charges she's facing.

Authorities said it's still unclear how the victim knew the others inside the home.

Several neighboring homes also sustained serious smoke and water damage.

Officials said more information is expected to be released over the coming days.