An Ohio motel fire killed three members of an Indian family from Gujarat after flames broke out at the Econo Lodge in Wooster, Ohio, officials said.
The fire was reported at about 1:30 a.m. local time on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at the motel, located about 60 miles south of Cleveland.
Ohio Motel Fire Kills Gujarat Family in Wooster
The victims were identified as Hiteshbhai Suthar, his wife Hinaben Suthar, and their 20-year-old daughter Ishani Suthar. The family was originally from Nadiad in Gujarat’s Kheda district and had moved to the United States about two years ago.
Hiteshbhai Suthar worked at the Econo Lodge, where the family had also been living.
Fire officials said crews arrived to find flames coming through the roof of a detached, one-story section at the rear of the motel. Thick smoke and heavy fire spread through the area as firefighters evacuated other occupants and tried to reach the trapped family.
Family Was Trapped Inside Living Quarters
Officials said the three victims were unable to escape from their living quarters. Firefighters made repeated rescue attempts, but the fire and smoke prevented them from reaching the room in time.
A motel employee working the overnight shift said Hiteshbhai called the front desk and pleaded for help because the family could not get out. She said she told them to move into the bathroom, turn on the water and wait for firefighters while she called 911.
The family was later found inside the room. Reports indicate they are believed to have died from smoke inhalation before crews could reach them.
Cause of Fatal Blaze Under Investigation
Authorities said no other guests or employees were killed, and other occupants were safely evacuated. One firefighter suffered minor injuries while battling the blaze.
The cause of the fatal fire remains under investigation.
The deaths have shaken the Wooster community and relatives in Nadiad, where the Suthar family’s move to the United States was seen as part of a search for work and stability. The tragedy has also drawn attention among Indian Americans and communities in Gujarat as relatives mourn the loss of three members of one family.
