LAGOS, Nigeria(VOICE OF NAIJA)- Hollywood actor Paul Avery has died alongside his wife, Sheila Avery, after a devastating house fire at their Blairstown, New Jersey home.
Paul Avery, who was widely recognized for playing Hughie on the long-running soap opera ‘All My Children’, was 81 years old.
According to reports, the fire broke out shortly before 1 a.m. on Tuesday, June 16, at the couple’s home on Mohican Road.
Emergency responders, including the New Jersey State Police and local firefighters, rushed to the scene after receiving reports of a residential fire with possible occupants trapped inside.
When firefighters entered the burning home, they found Paul and Sheila unconscious.
Both were rescued and given cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) at the scene, but they died shortly afterwards despite efforts to save their lives.
Authorities also report that the blaze was brought under control just after 1 a.m., while the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
The couple’s daughter, Kyle Avery, later confirmed the devastating news in an emotional statement, expressing gratitude for the efforts made by emergency responders.
“I’m devastated to share that our parents, Paul and Sheila Garry Avery, passed away early this morning. We loved them so much, and they loved us so much, and nobody ever had to wonder if that was so. We’re grateful to the Blairstown Fire Department for their efforts. Service plans to follow,” she wrote.
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News of the tragedy has sparked an outpouring of condolences from fans and colleagues who remembered Avery for his contributions to television and his decades-long career in entertainment.
Born on April 2, 1944, Avery earned a place in the hearts of soap opera viewers through his memorable performances.
His passing, alongside that of his wife, marks the end of a life and partnership that touched many beyond the screen.
While investigators continue to determine what caused the fatal fire, tributes continue to pour in for the beloved actor and his wife, with loved ones celebrating the memories they leave behind.
