Ocean County authorities are investigating the cause of a fire that killed a mother of three in Toms River Friday night.
According to a statement released by the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office, Toms River Township Police and multiple fire departments responded to a residence in the Silverton section of Toms River, for a report of a structure fire.
Ocean County officials say, upon the arrival of emergency personnel, the structure was fully engulfed with the fire spreading into the four surrounding residences.
Emergency service personnel determined that the structure was occupied by two adults and three children at the time of the fire.
It was further determined that a male and three children evacuated the residence, however one female remained inside.
Rescue efforts were attempted by police and fire personnel but were unsuccessful. After the fire was extinguished, Ms. Sara Trahey. was discovered inside the residence.
According to the family of the victim, Sara was a loving wife and the mother of three (3) beautiful children ages, 2, 7 and 9.
Family said Sara was loved and respected in the community, and her death has left a hole in their hearts and lives.
She was the media specialist at Ella G Clark Elementary School in Lakewood and touched the lives of so many children.