Buffalo, New York – A quiet Saturday evening turned tragic when a devastating house fire on Rano Street claimed the life of Randel Warner, a 71-year-old resident whose warmth and presence were well known in his neighborhood. The blaze, which spread rapidly and damaged multiple homes, has left the Buffalo community shaken and searching for answers.
The fire broke out around 6 p.m. at 112 Rano Street, a modest two-story residence that stood among several close-knit homes in the area. Witnesses reported seeing heavy smoke and flames erupt from the front of the house before firefighters arrived. Within minutes, what began as a localized blaze grew into a fierce inferno that consumed much of the structure.
Buffalo Fire Department crews responded swiftly, arriving to find the home engulfed in flames that were threatening neighboring properties. Firefighters battled intense heat and thick smoke as they worked to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading further. Despite their efforts, the flames had already caused significant structural damage by the time they gained control.
Once the fire was extinguished, firefighters entered the home to conduct a thorough search. Inside, they found Randel Warner, who had been unable to escape the fast-moving blaze. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Officials confirmed that one firefighter suffered injuries during the response and was taken to the hospital for evaluation but is expected to recover.
Authorities estimated that the home sustained approximately $150,000 in structural damage and $75,000 in loss of contents. The intense heat and spreading embers also caused damage to two neighboring properties — 98 and 114 Rano Street — where siding was melted and windows cracked under the pressure of the fire. The total damage to those homes was estimated at $10,000.
Neighbors described the chaotic scene as crews worked tirelessly to douse the flames. “It all happened so fast,” said one resident who lives nearby. “By the time we noticed the fire, it was already spreading. Everyone was out here praying for Mr. Warner.” Another resident added that Warner had lived in the neighborhood for decades and was known as a kind and helpful man.
Fire investigators remained at the scene late into the night, combing through debris in search of clues to determine how the fire began. Preliminary reports suggest that it may have started near the front of the house, though the exact cause remains under investigation. Officials have not yet said whether foul play is suspected.
City officials praised the firefighters for their quick response and bravery in dangerous conditions. “This was a difficult and emotional call,” one fire department spokesperson said. “Our crews worked courageously to control the fire and protect nearby homes. Sadly, we could not save everyone.”
As word of Warner’s death spread, messages of condolence began to pour in from friends, family, and neighbors. Many remembered him as a gentle soul with a love for his community and a heart for others. “He was the kind of person who’d help anyone,” a neighbor said through tears. “It’s hard to believe he’s gone.”
The Buffalo Fire Department continues to investigate the cause of the blaze. For now, the charred remains of the Rano Street home stand as a solemn reminder of life’s fragility — and of a man whose memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
