Grandmother and grandson killed in fire at Fresno retirement community identified

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- The two people killed in a fire at a retirement community in southeast Fresno have been identified as 66-year-old Rita Avila and 22-year-old Joseph Irelan.

Officials say that Avila was Irelan's grandmother.

The fire broke out at Willow Court Retirement Community at around 8 am Tuesday.

RELATED: Man, woman found dead in fire at Willow Retirement Community in southeast Fresno, officials say

Fresno Fire says it sparked inside a unit. When they arrived, they discovered Avila, Irelan, four cats and a dog dead inside, and the fire was nearly extinguished.

The fire started in the living room. Authorities say it did extend to the attic, but none of the adjoining units were damaged.

Fresno police have already ruled out foul play.

The coroner's office is doing an autopsy on the two victims to uncover the cause of their deaths.