Fire Engulfed Home/ Tragedy Strikes Albanian Family in the US, 3 Children Lose Their Lives, Neighbors Shocked: Great Misfortune

A terrible tragedy struck an Albanian family in Jacksonville, Florida, where three children lost their lives as a result of a powerful fire that engulfed their two-story home in the early hours of Wednesday, August 26.

Four other people—two children and two adults—are in critical condition in hospital. The family of Gentian Manati, a US resident whose home was engulfed by the flames, is originally from the 18 Tetori neighborhood in the city of Lushnje.

The family left years ago after winning the American lottery, and Gentian’s parents, Njazi and Alia, later joined them.

Gentian Manati’s two sisters lived in Lushnje. The Albanian state facilitated visas for them, and both set off in the early hours of Friday to be by their brother, parents and family during these difficult days.

The neighbors learned the tragic news and, with tears in their eyes, said they were shocked by the devastating incident.

“We are deeply shaken. They were struggling people who left the country in search of a better life,” said one resident.

“There can be no greater misfortune in life. To raise three children through sacrifice and tremendous effort. God help us,” said another resident.