Five family members have now died following a house fire in Watertown, and we're learning more about the victims.

38-year-old Aaron Bodah and four of his daughters, 14-year-old Merissa, 8-year-old Alexa, 6-year-old Erin, and 4-year-old Skylar, died after a fire sparked in their kitchen early Thursday morning.

13-year-old Hailey was able to escape and run to a neighbor's home for help. She's still receiving treatment at a local hospital and is in good condition according to police.

Police say that Aaron woke up Hailey and alerted her to get help.

From law enforcement and first responders to family, friends, and neighbors, the community is shaken by what happened on Thursday morning. A memorial continues to grow outside the house and a vigil is expected to start around 5:00 p.m. on Friday.

 

 

A large crowd is expected as the DPW has closed off the road.

Throughout the day loved ones and strangers have stopped by to pay their respects to the family. Everyone is trying to wrap their heads around the tragedy, especially, children in the neighborhood.

Spectrum News spoke with a number of classmates who have never dealt with something like this. They say school has feels empty without 14-year-old Merissa around.

“I just know that she was a really good person,” said Colin Gildea, one of Merissa’s classmates. “She cared about everybody. If you had an issue with her, she didn’t really have one back. It’s hard dealing with it without having her presence.”

The Watertown school district is offering support to students and staff. Even though there is February break next week, counselors will be available at district offices.

Stay tuned with Spectrum News as we will have more from the vigil later on Friday night.