A 24-year-old cyber security professional from Hyderabad tragically died after a massive fire engulfed a residential building on Western Avenue in Albany, New York, on Thursday. Another youth from Kukatpally, also critically injured in the blaze, is fighting for his life.
The deceased, Sahaja Reddy Udumala, a native of Jodimetla near Uppal, had completed her master’s degree in cyber security from the University at Albany just a year ago and was working there. She was the daughter of Udumala Jayakar Reddy, a software professional, and Maria Shailaja, a teacher. Sahaja was also the niece of Vishakhapatnam Archbishop Udumala Bala.
How the tragedy unfolded
Family members said the fire broke out around 11:40 am (US time) while Sahaja was asleep after returning from a night shift. The fire began in a room near hers and spread rapidly through the two-storey building, which housed several Indian students. She was rescued and taken to a hospital, but doctors could not save her.
“The hospital staff showed her to us on video before removing the ventilator… it was the last time we saw her,” a relative told TOI.
Residents rescued, tough firefighting operation
The Albany fire department received the first call at 11:50 am about a blaze at 241 Western Avenue, which quickly spread to the adjoining structure at 239 Western Avenue. Fire Chief Joseph Gregory described the scene as a “wall of fire up the front of the building”, worsened by winds and freezing temperatures.
“It was a difficult operation. The team did an outstanding job rescuing victims and putting out the fire,” Gregory said. A dog was also rescued from the site. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
The New York State Fire Investigations Unit has joined the probe. The American Red Cross is assisting 13 displaced residents, including University at Albany students.
Family coordinating return of the body
The Telugu Association of North America (TANA) and Sahaja’s relatives in the US are coordinating to bring her body back home to Hyderabad. “Arrangements are being made to bring her home,” a cousin said.
