A fire in the evening of Oct. 27 in a mobile home in Questa took the lives of two Questeñas. Anytime there are deaths related to a fire, the incident must be investigated thoroughly. This fire is still under investigation, and it is likely that it will be months before any information is released.

New Mexico State Police and the New Mexico Fire Marshall’s office are working on the case, headed by Lt. Mark Soriano and Capt. Jimmy St. James, respectively. Until the investigation is conclusive no details are available about the case.

The victims were identified as Albina Gallegos, 86, and her daughter, Cynthia Ortega, 58

After 10 pm on Oct. 27, the Questa Fire Department responded to a call about a fire on Old Red River Road. Reports say the fire was well underway when first responders arrived, flames were leaping high above the structure.

Firefighters from the Questa, Cerro, Latir, Lama, San Cristobal and Red River Fire Departments were all there. A total of 20 firefighters plus 2 EMTs on the Questa ambulance were on the scene. Raynelle Sanchez-Cordova was the Incident Commander on this fire.

Jona Olsson, Fire & EMS Chief for Latir Volunteer Fire Dept, issued this statement, “Latir VFD was assigned as water supply, meaning our firefighters shuttled many gallons of water from local hydrants to the scene to extinguish the structure fire. Any fire that results in a resident’s death is a tragedy, and it takes an emotional toll on every firefighter who responded. All of us first responders offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Ms. Gallegos and Ms. Ortega.”

Likewise, Questa Del Rio News send our condolences to those who have lost their loved ones and blessings to the family. And let’s give a big thank you to our first responders: you make a difference.