Father and daughter dead after house fire in Robeson Twp., Berks County

ROBESON TWP., Pa. (WPVI) -- A father and daughter are dead after a house fire early Wednesday morning in Berks County.

They were identified as 69-year-old Steve Kurtz and 34-year-old Carolyn Kurtz, according to the county coroner's office.

The fire broke out on the 3200 block of Morgantown Road in Robeson Township at 1 a.m.

"One of our officers who was on patrol actually saw the smoke coming from the house," said Officer Justin Schlottman. "Unfortunately, they were met with high heat and they were unable to gain entry into the residence to notify them of the fire."

The fire escalated to two alarms. More than 20 different agencies came to help fight the fire.

"We're in a rural area, so water is always an issue in a rural environment, so a lot of the resources that came were in the form of water tenders and tankers," said Schlottman.

Police say the fire started near the chimney and wood-burning stove.

"He used to sleep downstairs and keep an eye on it," said Michael Mull, Carolyn's uncle. He says Steve, his brother-in-law, was very careful about that chimney.

He says he just had dinner here the other night.

"We made plans to have an Easter egg hunt and everything for the kids," he said.

He says Carolyn and Steve will be missed. He described them as caring people who loved their family.

"I couldn't believe it," he said.

Carolyn is also a mother. The family says her daughter was with her dad that night. They're grateful the child is ok.

Police say a fire marshal is investigating the cause of the blaze.