Teen, Brother Killed in East Side House Fire

CLEVELAND — A house fire on Cleveland’s east side killed a teenager early on Sunday morning.

His brother, Anthony Gibson, 24, also died Monday at 3 p.m.

According to the Cuyahoga County medical examiner’s office, Michael Gibson, 19, was pulled from the home and later died at MetroHealth Medical Center.

The fire broke out in the 1500 block of E. 45th Street and was reported at 4:12 a.m.

It appeared to be accidental and may have started due to some unattended cooking, said Larry Gray, the spokesperson for the Cleveland Division of Fire.

There was a smoke alarm in the home but it didn’t appear to be functioning.

Gray stressed the importance of cautious cooking and smoke alarm maintenance.

“It brings the awareness of, number one, that you never leave a stove, and if you’re feeling fatigued or you’re under any medication, try not to cook,” Gray said.  “And if you do cook, stay at the stove and make sure that you’re aware that the potential could be, unfortunately, deadly if you fall asleep or walk away.”

He reminded the public to check smoke alarms and batteries monthly.

The Cleveland Division of Fire’s ‘Operation Save a Life’ provides smoke alarms at no charge.

Call (216) 361-5535 to request one for your home.