Embedded Files
By: Ben Wolfe 2/4/26
On January 18, 2026, tragedy struck. A house burnt down in Bloomington, Indiana, at 2:40 AM. It was a horrible time for the whole family, and a lot has happened. Not all information has been released yet, but many injuries have been caused. Two people have died, and the other two have been seriously injured. This fire was not accidental either. It was caused by someone, whose information has not yet been released.
This picture is a front view of the house.
The suspect's name is not disclosed at the moment, but he has been said to be in captivity at Eskanazi hospital. The person of interest, who was also said to be Mary Blake's grandson, was seen hiding in a wooded area outside of the scene. “There was a report of a man spreading gasoline throughout the two-story home after he had wrecked his vehicle into the overhead garage door.” Stated Fox59 news. The person who did this, to no surprise, is also suspected to be the person of interest. Those who died in the fire were Kristen Rowan, 33, and Mary Blake, 74. Multiple injuries to the survivors have been caused, and the 2 surviving victims were taken to IU Bloomington Health.
Those who survived were in serious conditions. Gabby and Paula Anderson (mother and daughter), are currently recovering from the fire. They were found outside of their house, covered in burns. Kristen Rowan, who had cerebral palsy, was bedridden. Mary Blake, a senior, was also vulnerable considering her age, and the fact that she had brain cancer made it really amazing she survived . In an interview with Fox59 news, Lindsey Pesonen, who lost her niece, Kristen Rowan in the fire, states, “And how could he do this not only to his own grandmother but knowing that there was another person in this house who couldn’t help herself and has been bedridden for years with cerebral palsy who defeated her own body time and time again to keep living and then she had that taken from her with no choice, with no ability to get out of that house.” She, including her whole family, are waiting for answers, and stability.
This is Paula Anderson and Mary Blake.
This is a picture after the house burned.
Monroe County Fire Protection District had responded to multiple calls, regarding a fire early Sunday morning. When they arrived at the scene, they had also seen a car that was crashed into a garage, which was on fire, likely caused by the suspect. Regarding the suspect found, according to the release, “Charges are pending as the investigation continues.”
All in all, the house fire was an unprecedented event. It harmed many, hurt many, and caused disruption in families. Police responded to the scene, and did as much as they could. Sadly, despite the efforts, two have died out of the four. It was also caused by someone, who is currently in custody. Although, despite this, not all information has been provided at this given time.
Sources:
Indiana Daily Student
Fox59 news
WTHR
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