Quadruple fatal house fire in Yorkshire Update
On September 6, 2024, at approximately 2:11 A.M., Troopers out of SP Machias responded to 3825 Creek Road in the town of Yorkshire for a single-family residential fire. Preliminary investigation reveals the fire started near the kitchen area of the residence. One family member was able to exit the residence and call 911. The other four family members were located deceased in the residence. The NYSP Bureau of Criminal Investigation, Forensic Identification Unit were assisted by NY State Fire and Yorkshire Fire Department on the scene. Multiple Fire Company’s and EMS in Cattaraugus County responded to the scene to assist.
UPDATE- September 9, 2024. The only living survivor of the residential fire was James T. Cook, 18 years old. The Erie County Medical Examiner’s Office has positively identified three of the four victims. Faith M. Cook, 12 years old, Tonya S. Cook, 15 years old and Kristina M. Kipfer, 36 years old. The fire has been ruled as non-criminal.
NYSP are working with Pioneer Central School District on the status of the investigation. It is believed that some of the victims went to Pioneer Central School.
Positive identification will be made by the Medical Examiner’s Office. NYSP will release the positively identification of the remaining victim.
More information will be provided as the investigation continues.
This is still an active investigation.