VIDEO: Many in the Trenton community are carrying heavy hearts as they mourn the loss of Joseph Kokulo, 18, who died in a house fire on Friday night.
The JROTC cadet and aspiring Airman was prepared to proudly wear his uniform on Saturday morning for the Trenton Central High School homecoming parade. “He was a part of the family, and he wanted to do better. He wanted to do great and wonderful things,” said JROTC Master Sgt. Terry Troup.
Kokulo’s uncle, Henry Zubah, said he even went to bed early on Friday, eager to take part in the occasion. But sadly, around 11 p.m., a fire broke out in a row home on North Olden Avenue. Officials said it spread rapidly and destroyed seven houses.
“Just to watch the horror that unfolded and the families scattered,” said Mayor W. Reed Gusciora. “The Red Cross came and provided immediate housing and shelter. Twenty-two people are going to have to put their lives back to order.”
Gusciora said three residents were hurt and one woman is in critical condition. First responders also suffered from smoke inhalation.
