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Organs of 9-year-old boy donated after Detroit house fire

Posted at 10:33 PM, Feb 16, 2019
and last updated 2019-02-16 23:52:14-05

DETROIT (WXYZ) — A 9-year-old boy who was injured in a house fire on Detroit’s west side has now been taken off life support, and his organs will be donated to save the lives of others.

The life of Orlando Cosby was cut short after a fire at his home on Hubbell near Greenfield. Family says it was around 2 a.m. Wednesday when Orlando’s mother, Jasmine Cosby, woke up to sounds coming from the basement. That is where the fire is believed to have started.

Cosby and her 6-year-old son Jayden were able to run outside, but Orlando was trapped inside the house.

Firefighters were able to get Orlando out and perform CPR. He was taken off life support on Friday, and his organs will now be donated.

“I’m just tore up, just tore up, tore to pieces, lost for words,” said Sheldon Clemens, Orlando’s grandfather.

According to a GoFundMe page, Orlando suffered from carbon monoxide poisoning and smoke inhalation. The website also states Orlando’s organs saved the lives of six other children.

“If there was a light at the end of the tunnel, it would be that. Because of his demise, he’s able to give life to others,” said close family friend Charles Thomas.

Orlando’s mother and brother are still in the hospital recovering from their injuries.

The family tells 7 Action News investigators believe the fire was started because of an electrical issue.