In Loving Memory of Aurelian Kamp and John Morris

NORTH HAVEN, Conn. — The North Haven community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 8-year-old Aurelian Kamp and 72-year-old John Morris, who tragically lost their lives in a devastating house fire early Monday morning. Authorities confirmed their identities on Tuesday following an extensive investigation by local and state fire officials.

Emergency crews responded to reports of a structure fire on George Street around 12:30 a.m. Monday. Upon arrival, firefighters were met with intense flames consuming both the first and second floors of the residence. Crews learned that a child was trapped in an upstairs bedroom and immediately began a desperate search-and-rescue operation under extreme conditions.

Firefighters located an elderly man, later identified as John Morris, deceased on the second floor, and subsequently found young Aurelian under a bed in one of the bedrooms. Despite their valiant efforts, both were pronounced dead at the scene.

Following a joint investigation by the Connecticut State Police Fire & Explosion Investigation Unit, North Haven Fire Department, and North Haven Police Department, officials determined that the fire originated in a first-floor den and was accidental, linked to smoking materials.

North Haven Fire Chief Paul Januszewski expressed his deep sorrow over the tragedy and praised the courage of his team.

“Our firefighters did everything possible under extremely difficult and dangerous circumstances,” Januszewski said. “This tragedy is a sobering reminder of how quickly fires can spread inside a home — and the importance of taking simple but life-saving precautions.”

He urged all residents to ensure their homes are equipped with working smoke alarms on every floor and in each bedroom, to close interior doors to slow the spread of fire, and to develop and practice escape plans with their families.

In the aftermath of the fire, the North Haven community has united in grief and support. A candlelight vigil has been organized for 6 p.m. at St. Barnabas Church on Washington Avenue, where friends, neighbors, and local leaders will gather to honor the lives of Aurelian and John and offer comfort to their families.

North Haven First Selectman Michael Freda shared a heartfelt message of condolence on behalf of the town:

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the Morris and Kamp families during this heartbreaking time. The Town of North Haven stands united in sorrow, but also in gratitude for the bravery and dedication shown by our first responders.”

As the investigation concludes, officials emphasize the importance of fire safety awareness and preparedness, hoping to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The North Haven Fire Department extended its gratitude to all emergency personnel and neighboring agencies whose teamwork helped contain the blaze and prevent further loss.

The memory of Aurelian Kamp and John Morris will forever live on in the hearts of their loved ones and the North Haven community — a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the strength that arises when a town comes together in compassion and remembrance.