BANKS, Ark. — A late-night house fire in Banks claimed the lives of a pregnant mother and her one-year-old child Wednesday evening, with the unborn child also lost in the incident, according to a fire report from the Banks Volunteer Fire Department and information provided to Saline River News.
Firefighters were dispatched at approximately 8:53 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2026, to a reported house explosion at a residence located at 521 Grand Ave. When crews arrived on the scene, the home was already fully engulfed in flames.
The Banks Volunteer Fire Department responded with 11 firefighters and was assisted by the Hermitage Fire Department and the Bradley County Rural Fire Department. The Bradley County Sheriff’s Department was also on scene.
Officials confirmed that the pregnant mother and her one-year-old child died in the fire. The unborn child was also lost, bringing the total number of fatalities to three.
The names of the victims have not been officially released. Out of respect for the family, Saline River News has chosen not to publish names prior to the family having the opportunity to release obituary information.
According to the fire report, the cause of the fire is unknown at this time and remains under investigation.
Community members wishing to assist the family during this time may do so through the Adams Family Fire Relief and Memorial Fund, which has been established at Commercial Bank. The account may be accessed at the bank’s locations in Monticello, Warren, Hampton, and Hermitage. Burial contributions are also being accepted through Frazier’s Funeral Home. Those wishing to donate clothing or other essential items are encouraged to coordinate directly with the family, as arrangements are being made to receive donated goods.
