Lucitha Blanc, 25, Reenters Burning Home to Save 2-Year-Old Daughter, Both Hospitalized

 The Taunton community is rallying around Lucitha Blanc, 25, and her 2-year-old daughter, Jenelle Germilus, who were critically injured in a devastating house explosion at 78 Plain Street on Wednesday morning. Firefighters arrived around 9:50 a.m. to find the three-family home fully engulfed in flames, with thick smoke and fire consuming the structure. According to Fire Chief Steven Lavigne, Lucitha initially escaped the blaze but courageously reentered the home to rescue her daughter, sustaining severe injuries in the process. Both mother and child were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment, with Lucitha taken to Rhode Island Hospital and Jenelle transported to Hasbro Children’s Hospital.

The explosion caused catastrophic damage, completely destroying the home and displacing eight residents from three families. Nearby homes also suffered damage from the fire, highlighting the widespread impact of the incident. Firefighters and emergency personnel worked under challenging winter conditions, coordinating multiple units from Taunton and Raynham to control the blaze. Despite the intensity of the fire, no firefighters were injured, a testament to the professionalism and rapid response of local emergency crews. Utilities at the scene were promptly shut off by Eversource to prevent further hazards.

Investigators from the Taunton Fire and Police Departments, along with the state fire marshal’s office, have launched a thorough inquiry into the cause of the explosion. At this time, authorities have not released definitive findings, and the investigation continues as experts analyze structural damage, electrical systems, and other potential contributing factors. The goal is to determine the circumstances that led to the sudden and destructive incident.

Lucitha’s heroism in reentering the burning building to save her daughter has captured the attention of neighbors and the wider community. Friends and residents describe her actions as extraordinary, emphasizing the selflessness and love that motivated her to risk her life. The incident has prompted an outpouring of support from the community, who have rallied to provide emotional and financial assistance to the family during this difficult time.

A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help cover medical expenses, recovery costs, and other needs as Lucitha and Jenelle begin their road to recovery. The fundraising effort has drawn widespread attention, with donations reflecting the generosity and solidarity of the Taunton community. Local organizations, neighbors, and friends are coming together to support the family, offering meals, shelter, and resources to help them navigate the aftermath of the explosion.

While the road to recovery for Lucitha and her daughter will be long and challenging, their story is one of courage, survival, and community resilience. Emergency responders, neighbors, and volunteers continue to provide vital support, ensuring the family has what they need to heal. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of home emergencies, but also of the extraordinary bravery and love that can emerge even in the most catastrophic circumstances.