Six family members, including four children, identified as victims of deadly Hartland apartment fire
HARTLAND, WISCONSIN: According to a statement released by the Hartland Police Department on Sunday, October 23, 2022, an apartment fire in the municipality of Hartland claimed the lives of two adults and four children on Friday, October 21, 2022. According to the police, the adult fire victims have been identified as Connor McKisick and Jessica McKisick. A 14-year-old girl, a 12-year-old girl, and two 3-year-old boys were confirmed as the four children who were the victim of the deadly fire. According to investigators, all six people shared the flat at 700 Mansfield Court and they were members of the same family.
Police Chief Torin Misko stated that a criminal investigation was ongoing on Friday, October 21, 2022, but was unable to determine whether the fire was started maliciously or purposefully. The Waukesha County Medical Examiner's Office and the Hartland Police Department are still reportedly looking into this. "Please respect the family's privacy while they mourn the loss of their loved ones," Misko remarked. The incident was reportedly first reported at 5:11 am on Friday, October 21, 2022, from a four-family apartment building. Upon arrival, the Hartland police and fire departments helped evacuate individuals from inside the actively burning building and from balconies. Nine police departments and fifteen fire departments reportedly participated in the whole rescue operation.
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Later, Arrowhead Union High School Superintendent Laura Myrah identified the 14-year-old girl as Natalie Kleemeier, sharing a letter sent to families Sunday evening with FOX6 News. The letter allegedly said, “It is with a heavy heart that I write to inform you that Arrowhead Freshman Natalie Kleemeier died in relation to the Hartland apartment fire in the early morning hours of October 21, 2022. While this matter remains under active investigation by law enforcement agencies, we do have the support of the Hartland Police Department sharing Natalie’s identity at this time. The entire Arrowhead High School community is deeply saddened by this untimely event.”
“Natalie was a student who was friends with and made positive connections with many Arrowhead students and staff members. She was a freshman who was known as a quiet but funny young woman who cared for those around her. Our sincere condolences go out to the family and friends of Natalie at this very difficult time. If family members desire, we will share funeral arrangements at a later date. Thank you for your support and give your own child(ren) an extra hug tonight,” the letter remarked. Around 20 residents also gathered for a vigil at Nixon Park on Friday evening, October 21, 2022, to pay tribute to the victims.