Couple Found Dead in Main Bedroom After 2 AM Fire Destroys Delaware Townhome

A married couple lost their lives when a fire tore through their three-story townhome on Wilmington’s 8th Avenue just after 2:30 in the morning on October 20, 2026. By the time firefighters arrived, every floor was burning.

The fire took more than two hours to bring under control. By then, it was already too late.

A Home Fully Engulfed Before Help Could Arrive

John and Tanya Poteat were found in the main bedroom of the home. The second floor had already collapsed. Two firefighters suffered minor injuries and one was treated and released at the scene.

Neighboring townhomes also took damage from fire, smoke, and water. Families living in those homes had to leave. The couple’s three dogs were inside. Their fate wasn’t immediately confirmed…