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2 Small Children Killed In Detroit House Fire

DETROIT (WWJ) - Detroit police say two children — ages one and four — were home alone when they were killed in a fire on the city's northwest side.

Detroit firefighters pulled the kids from the burning house — on Prairie Street, just east of Livernois —  shortly after 1 p.m.

"They arrived here, put out the flames, and discovered two young children inside of the residence," Detroit Police Chief James Craig told reporters at the scene. "They were immediately transported to a local hospital where both were pronounced dead."

Craig said the kids were found together in an upstairs bedroom. He said they'd been left there alone by their father, but it was unclear for how long.

Police are investigating whether this could be a case of arson, after one witness reported seeing a truck in front of the home, and someone throwing an object toward or inside the house.

Another possible cause: Police said space heaters were found on the home's lower level.

No names have been released as an investigation continues.

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