Mother of child killed in Richmond house fire thanks community for its support
VENN
RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- The mother and granddaughter of the two people who tragically died in a Saturday morning house fire in Richmond says she is so grateful for the support of her community in the wake of such a devastating loss.
The morning of Saturday, Dec. 13, a house fire in the 1100 block of North 22nd Street tragically claimed the lives of a 70-year-old woman and her 10-year-old grandson, who were identified by neighbors as Rosa Marie Ross and Kareem Londell Swann, respectively.
A 56-year-old man was also found injured in the home. A neighbor previously told 8News he was a family member of the other two victims, adding that he’s since been released from the hospital.
A GoFundMe campaign was set up by neighbors to support the Ross family during this time. As of the time of reporting, the community has raised over $20,000.
10-year-old Kareem Londell Swann. (Photo: Rickshawn Ross)
Rosa Marie Ross. (Photo: Rickshawn Ross)
8News obtained a statement on this tragedy from Rosa's granddaughter and Kareem's mother, Rickshawn Ross, though some of these neighbors.
In her statement, Rickshawn thanked her community for their support in the wake of this tragedy. She also identified the 56-year-old man hurt in the fire as her father, Ricky Ross, and confirmed that he is on the mend.
Her full statement reads as follows:
"On behalf of our family, we want to sincerely thank everyone who continues to reach out, show up and contribute during this incredibly difficult time. We are deeply grateful for the love and care being extended to my grandmother, Rosa Marie Ross, and my son, Kareem Londell Swann.
Ricky Ross has been released from the hospital and is doing okay.
This outpouring of support has meant more to us than words can express. We appreciate your understanding and continued respect for our privacy.
Funds raised will support any needs to include funeral arrangements, cremation, the memorial service, repast and transitional living costs for Ricky Ross.
Thank you again for holding our family in love, prayer and care during this time.
Rickshawn Ross
Granddaughter of Rosa Marie Ross
Mother of Kareem Londell Swann
Daughter of Ricky Ross"
The Richmond Fire Department has not yet determined the cause of this deadly fire. The agency is encouraging all city residents to follow its safety tips to reduce their risk of a house fire, especially during the winter and holiday season.
