Mother, her 12-year-old daughter dead after fire at Downey apartment

DOWNEY, Calif. (KABC) -- A mother and her 12-year-old daughter were killed, and the child's grandmother was injured, after a fire ripped through an apartment in Downey.

The fire started late Tuesday night near the area of Dinsdale Street and Tweedy Lane, according to the Downey Fire Department. When firefighters arrived on scene, they found one of the garages and living rooms engulfed in flames.

Authorities say the mother, who has not been identified, and 12-year-old girl were upstairs when the fire broke out. The woman, who was pronounced dead on scene, is believed to be the mother of the child.

Crews said it was difficult to find them trapped inside because the smoke was so thick.

"Conditions inside of the structure, they reported zero visibility and high heat on the second floor," said Battalion Chief Jorge Villanueva.

A second woman, who is believed to be the girl's grandmother, was found outside the home.

Both she and the child were taken to the hospital for 1st and 2nd degree burns, but Downey fire officials later confirmed the child did not survive.

Additional details were not available.

Investigators have not determined the cause of the fire, but say people should be vigilant, especially with Christmas tree fires common during this time of year.

No other apartment units were damaged by the flames.

Meanwhile, a GoFundMe has been set up to help the family during this time.