MCSO identifies woman killed in fire west of Buckeye; 2 kids also died

MARICOPA COUNTY, Ariz. - A woman and two kids are dead after a fire broke out on Wednesday at a home in the far west Valley.

The fire happened on Sept.18 around 4:30 a.m. outside the community of Arlington, near 355th Avenue and Elliot Road. It's about 12 miles west of Buckeye.

The Maricopa County Sheriff's Office initially said there were "possible deceased individuals" in the home. MCSO later confirmed three people were found dead inside a detached structure.

"Early this morning, Engine 341 responded to a fully involved fire in a converted small residence in the main house's backyard," Arizona Fire and Medical Authority wrote on X. "Tragically, three residents were found deceased in the home. No firefighter injuries were reported."

The victims are 36-year-old Cayla Clark and the two children are 11 and 4.

"Due to the children being juveniles, the names will not be provided," MCSO said.

There is no indication at this time of foul play involving the fire. MCSO says their investigation is evolving, and the cause of the fire is unknown at this time.

Neighbors react to the tragedy

"I feel bad for the family."

"All of a sudden, I see everything is closed off. A lot of police. I’ve never seen police on this street at all."

The Arlington neighborhood is so rural that hydrants can’t be seen in any direction. Crews had to use water from their trucks to douse the flames.

The converted home sits behind another property, which remains untouched.

"I never really thought a fire would start. I know it's like in the middle of no where and stuff could happen randomly, but I didn’t really expect it."

As neighbors looked on, they said they’re concerned about the animals they believe were housed inside, including llamas. None could be seen on the grounds following the aftermath of the fire.

The fear is they too might have been killed.

"It’s sad. You know, anytime there’s a loss of life, whether its young or old, it's always a sad feeling."

It’s unclear if people were living in the structure.