Third victim dies following suspected arson fire in Bloomington

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A 53-year-old woman named Paula Anderson has died from injuries sustained in a suspected arson fire that also killed her oldest daughter and a family friend in Bloomington, Indiana. The fire broke out on January 18 and left Anderson's youngest daughter, Gabby, hospitalized with burns on 30% of her body.

Why it matters

This tragic incident has devastated the local community and raised concerns about public safety, as investigators believe the fire was intentionally set. The loss of life and ongoing medical care needed for the survivors have prompted an outpouring of support through a GoFundMe campaign.

The details

According to authorities, the fire started around 2:40 a.m. on January 18 in the 3800 block of East Anderson Road. When deputies arrived, they found a vehicle had crashed into the attached garage, which was fully engulfed in flames. Paula Anderson, a certified nursing assistant, and her youngest daughter Gabby were severely burned while trying to rescue others trapped inside. The fire claimed the lives of Paula's oldest daughter Kristine Rowan, who had cerebral palsy, and Mary Blake, the 74-year-old owner of the home where Paula provided care. A suspect was later found hiding on the property and suffered burn injuries, with charges pending as the investigation continues.

• The fire broke out around 2:40 a.m. on January 18.
• Paula Anderson passed away on February 4.
• As of early February, the community has raised over $28,000 through a GoFundMe campaign for the survivors.

What’s next

The Monroe County Sheriff's Office is continuing its investigation into the suspected arson fire, and charges are pending against the person of interest who was found on the property.