LACKAWANNA, N.Y. (WKBW) — A Lackawanna neighborhood came together for a vigil to remember a mother and daughter who lost their lives in a house fire late Tuesday.
City of Lackawanna officials said 28-year-old Felicia Toporek and 4-year-old Audrey Zosowski were killed. Toporek's 5-year-old Ashlyn and 1-month-old Vivianne were taken to local hospitals.
"She loved her daughters more than life itself," childhood friend Alaina Tabor said.
WATCH: Community remembers mother and daughter killed in Lackawanna house fire
Alaina Tabor and Jess Egana grew up with Toporek and were among the family, friends and strangers who gathered Friday to honor the memory of her and her daughter.
"Overwhelming in such a great way," Egana said. "Felicia brought so many memories and adventures in life to so many people. Seeing everyone here really goes to show that she impacted a lot of lives."
They shared that Audrey celebrated her fourth birthday a few weeks ago.
"She loved animals and she loved dinosaurs," Tabor said. "She was a little one-man wrecking crew. She could tear apart a room herself, having fun. Fun bright little girl."
The Lackawanna Fire Department said Ashlyn was removed from the roof of the home, while Toporek and the two younger children were trapped inside a bedroom.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
"Heartwarming to see everyone bring things for the girls after losing everything," said Tabor.
A donation drive was organized at the vigil for the surviving children. A GoFundMe campaign has been established to help during this difficult time.
