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CSU Hoops Player Loses Parents, 2-Year-Old Relatives In House Fire

FORT COLLINS, Colo. (AP/CBS4) - Colorado State junior forward Emmanuel Omogbo is expected to play at Air Force on Wednesday night, a day after losing his parents and two young relatives in a house fire.

Fire officials in Maryland said Caroline and Samson Omogbo died at the scene in a blaze early Tuesday in Chillum. His sister's 2-year-old twin niece and nephew were taken to a hospital, where they died.

Emmanuel Omogbo House Fire
(credit: CBS)

"I looked, I could see the flames. It was almost totally engulfed by then; you knew immediately if anybody was in that house they were gone," witness Glenda Harrison said.

Omogbo's sister, Elizabeth Omije, jumped from a two-story window and survived. Two other people also escaped the fire safely.

"This is absolutely heartbreaking for Emmanuel, his family and for all of us that know him. There are no words to describe how it felt to hear this terrible news earlier today," Colorado State head coach Larry Eustachy said. "They were a beautiful family that I enjoyed getting to know. The entire Colorado State men's basketball team, athletic program and university will be there to support and help Emmanuel in any way we can through this incredibly tough time in his life."

Emmanuel Omogbo House Fire
(credit: CBS)

Investigators don't believe there were smoke detectors in the home the family was renting.

Born in Nigeria, Omogbo grew up in Hyattsville, Maryland. He attended South Plains College in Texas before joining the Rams.

Omogbo is averaging 11.4 points and 7.4 rebounds.

Emmanuel Omogbo
Emmanuel Omogbo (credit: csurams.com)

Additional Information From The Colorado State University Department of Athletics

In response to the tragedy that occurred to junior men's basketball player Emmanuel Omogbo and his family, the Colorado State University Department of Athletics has established a GoFundMe account (http://www.gofundme.com/Omogbo) to assist with various expenses. This account is in compliance with NCAA rules regarding these situations and allows all fans, donors and supporters to contribute to particular expenses for Emmanuel and his family.

LINK: Read The Entire News Release

 

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