Toddler killed in Union County mobile home fire

By JOSH AULT
6 News Reporter

LUTTRELL (WATE) - A toddler died Saturday after fire erupted in a mobile home.

Authorities have not yet released the victim's name, but family members say Matthew Parker, 2, was killed the fire. Matthew is the youngest of six children.

Officials say the fire happened at the Parker family's mobile home on Front Street shortly before 5 p.m.

A Luttrell volunteer firefighter who lived nearby was the first on the scene. He told investigators the home was already 90% engulfed when he arrived.

"I seen two police cars go up the street flying," said neighbor Michael Hill. "I naturally came to the window and look out and seen smoke."

Several family members received minor injuries trying to fight the fire themselves.

Volunteer fire departments from around the county responded to the blaze.

"Total of five departments," said Luttrell Volunteer Fire Department Chief Joey McBee. "I haven't got a definite count of firefighters, probably 30."

Investigators are still trying to figure out the cause of the fire.

"We've called the Tennessee arson and bomb team in, also TBI, to help us with that investigation," said Union County Sheriff's Department spokesman Mike Butcher, "Nothing is suspected at this time that there is any foul play. It's just standard protocol for them to be called in."

Family members say Matthew's nickname was "Sandwich". Neighbors said the family was very nice, and are heartbroken for their loss.

"I'm sorry for your loss," said Hill. "I can't imagine the loss of a child. Anytime you lose a family member there's no words for it."

The state fire marshall was called in and will be heading the investigation.