Sahaja Reddy Udumala, a 24-year-old Indian student pursuing her Master’s degree in Albany, New York, has died from severe burn injuries following a catastrophic house fire on Western Avenue. Authorities confirmed her death on Thursday, noting she suffered burns covering nearly 90% of her body.
The Consulate General of India in New York expressed its “deep sadness” over Udumala’s passing in a message posted Friday, extending condolences to her family and confirming that it is working closely with relatives to provide assistance.
Fire Engulfed Two Western Avenue Buildings
According to the Albany Police Department, officers and firefighters responded to the blaze on the morning of December 4 at 239 Western Ave., where flames had already fully engulfed the structure and spread to the neighboring building at 241 Western Ave. Crews learned that multiple people were still trapped inside.
Firefighters ultimately rescued four adults from the burning residence. One individual managed to escape independently, while crews used a ladder to reach another. Two more victims were located inside the home. All were transported to the hospital with serious or critical injuries, and two—including Udumala—were later airlifted to Westchester Medical Center for specialized burn treatment.
“A Future Full of Dreams”: Family Mourns the Loss
Udumala’s cousin, Rathna Gopu, launched a fundraiser to help cover funeral arrangements, repatriation to India, and family support. The campaign describes the immense suffering Udumala endured as medical teams fought to save her.
“Our family experienced an unimaginable tragedy when our beloved cousin, Sahaja Udumala, passed away following a devastating fire accident,” Gopu wrote. “She was just 24 years old — a bright, hardworking student with a future full of dreams, hope, and promise.”
Gopu shared that Udumala sustained critical burns affecting nearly 90% of her body and later experienced complete organ failure despite extensive lifesaving efforts.
“Losing her so suddenly has left our family devastated and facing unexpected emotional and financial hardships,” Gopu wrote. As of the latest update, the fundraiser has collected more than $109,000 toward a goal of $120,000.
Community Impact and Ongoing Investigation
The fire displaced 13 residents, with the American Red Cross providing emergency assistance. Albany Fire Chief Joseph Gregory said investigators remained on scene Friday, closing the road as they examined the cause of the blaze.
Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan urged residents to take home fire safety seriously, emphasizing the lifesaving importance of working smoke alarms and immediate evacuation when emergencies arise.
Four individuals were hospitalized following the fire — two in serious condition and two in critical condition.
Authorities continue to investigate what sparked the inferno.
