Community remembers Cortlandt Manor siblings lost in tragic house fire
Funeral services were held for 17-year-old Alina Toone and her 15-year-old brother, Jeremiah Toone, who lost their lives after a fast-moving fire tore through their Cortlandt Manor home in the early morning hours of May 27.
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Family, friends and members of the Hudson Valley community gathered Saturday to honor the lives of two siblings whose deaths in a devastating house fire last month have left a lasting impact on those who knew them.
Funeral services were held at Reach Church in White Plains for 17-year-old Alina Toone and her 15-year-old brother, Jeremiah Toone, who died after a fast-moving fire destroyed their Cortlandt Manor home in the early morning hours of May 27.
“They were amazing children. They were brilliant. They were bright,” said family friend Roselyn L.
Throughout the service, loved ones remembered the Putnam Valley High School students not only for their accomplishments, but for the joy and kindness they brought to others.
“We lost two beautiful souls. My niece and nephew were very special,” said their uncle, Jack Toone. “The community, the world, the county has been so supportive to my family.”
Investigators determined the fire was accidental and likely caused by an electrical failure involving a power strip.
Pastor Caren Petfield of Reach Church said the tragedy has deeply affected the community, while also highlighting the importance of supporting one another through unimaginable loss.
“While we can’t take away their pain, we can come alongside and partner with them, and I think that makes a world of difference,” Petfield said.
As mourners reflected on the lives of Alina and Jeremiah, family members expressed hope that their legacy would inspire people to cherish their relationships and lead with compassion.
“This moment created a movement. A movement of love,” Jack Toone said. “We want you to get rid of your petty differences. We want you to remember that love is the most important thing. Family is the most important thing. Talk to each other, hug each other, love each other.”
As hymns filled the church, loved ones offered one final request.
“Please remember Jeremiah and Alina,” Toone said.
Alina and Jeremiah Toone are being laid to rest at Rose Hill Memorial Park in Putnam Valley.
MORE: ‘Devastating’ loss leaves Cortlandt Manor community in shock and grief after deadly fire
