Gujarat Family Perishes in Ohio Motel Fire

The family, originally from Nadiad in Gujarat’s Kheda district, had relocated to the United States two years ago. They were residing at the motel where Hiteshbhai worked, while Hinaben held a position at a neighboring property and Ishani worked at a nearby McDonald’s. According to motel employee April Graser, the victims remained in contact with the front desk as the fire intensified, with Hiteshbhai pleading for assistance while smoke and flames engulfed the structure.

Wooster Township Fire Chief Dallas Terrell confirmed that rescue crews arrived to find flames already breaching the roof. Despite multiple attempts to reach the trapped occupants, the intensity of the fire prevented entry. The blaze caused extensive damage to the back, detached section of the Econo Lodge, located approximately 96 kilometers south of Cleveland. While investigators continue to examine the scene to determine the origin of the fire, the local community is mourning the loss of the three victims, who were well-regarded by their colleagues.