On Dead as Early Morning Fire Destroys Home North of Waterford; Donations Sought

UPDATED March 17, 2026

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Fire crews were called to a structure fire north of Waterford early Saturday morning.

Firefighters were dispatched just after 4 a.m. to a residence in the 10400 block of North Route 19 after a neighbor reported a structure fire. Emergency dispatch reports indicated heavy flames coming from the south side of the home when crews were called to the scene.

According to the Stancliff Hose Company, firefighters spent several hours working to control the blaze. High winds hampered suppression efforts during the incident.

The Erie County Coroner’s office has confirmed that one man was found dead at the scene The deceased was identified as Joseph Gradler, 45.

Several fire departments assisted at the incident, including Perry Hi-Way Hose Company, Kuhl Hose Fire Department, McKean Hose Company, Mill Village Volunteer Fire Company, Edinboro Volunteer Fire Department, Union City Volunteer Fire Company and Wattsburg Hose Company. EmergyCare also staged at the scene.

According to reports from the scene there were no injuries reported but several animals did not survive. The American Red Cross is assisting the those affected.

Community members are organizing a clothing donation drive for the family. Needed items include clothing for a woman in small and medium/large sizes. Children’s clothing and shoes needed include:

17-year-old girl: medium clothing, size 7/8 shoes
13-year-old girl: junior large clothing, size 8/9 shoes
11-year-old girl: junior medium clothing, size 5/6 shoes
10-year-old girl: size 10/12 clothing, size 4 shoes
13-year-old boy: size 10/12 clothing, size 4 shoes
6-month-old baby boy: 6–9 month and 9–12 month clothing

Donations can be dropped off at American Legion in Union City.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation by Pennsylvania State Police.