Bridgeport official donates toys, clothing, gift cards to families affected by deadly fire

BRIDGEPORT -- A city official gave gifts to family members displaced by a fatal apartment building fire Monday, according to Councilwoman Eneida Martinez.

Martinez said she purchased about $800 worth of clothing and toys from Walmart. She said community members donated about $300 worth of gift cards, which were split among the families affected by the fire.

"It was a tragedy over in the community," Martinez said. "I have a degree in human services. I have worked all my years with the homeless population so anything like this is very touching to my heart.

"It's something that I take very seriously, anytime we have any issues in the district pertaining to fires or homelessness or anything to that effect, I always step up and help," she added.

Three people were taken to the hospital for evaluation, Bridgeport spokesperson Tiadora Josef said Tuesday in a news release. One person later died as a result of the fire, Josef added.

Four adults and four children were being relocated by the American Red Cross, Josef said.