Mom, daughter identified in fatal Akron house fire

AKRON, Ohio - Firefighters are sending out a message about the importance of smoke detectors after a tragic fire in Akron.

Elaine Csora, 52, and her 28-year-old daughter, Jennifer Barlow, both died overnight inside an Oxford Avenue home. Firefighters said they didn't find any smoke detectors in the home.

Family members are dealing with sudden grief and shock following the news.

"She was very loved by everybody, friends, neighbors," said Melford Barlow, as he talked about his daughter, Jennifer.

"I can't comprehend. I'm surprised I'm even crying. I've cried so much. It's hard," added Crystal Barlow, Jennifer's stepmother.

Barlow had a job cleaning homes and loved picnics and hiking. Her mother worked in the Akron distribution center for the U.S. Postal Service.

Charlotte Sigmon, Csora's mail carrier, described Csora as a friendly person and an animal lover. Sigmon was deeply saddened when she learned of the tragedy on her route.

"I wasn't prepared for it. Let's just say that. It just blew me away when I found out. It wouldn't have been good no matter who it was," Sigmon said.

Fire officials said the blaze started around 2:30 a.m. on the first floor and smoke quickly filled the second floor bedrooms where the women were sleeping.

Captain Mark Oziomek said there could have been a different outcome if there had been smoke detectors inside the home.

"Not to have one in a house is very sad. It possibly could have saved two lives," Oziomek said.

Captain Al Bragg said there were no signs of foul play. The cause of the fire remained undetermined. Damage was estimated at $60,000.

The Summit County Medical Examiner said the women died from smoke inhalation.