Tragic Fire in Saugerties Claims A Life and Five Dogs

A tragic early morning fire in Ulster County has claimed the life of a woman and five dogs after flames tore through a multi-occupant home in Saugerties, NY.

Fatal House Fire in Saugerties, NY

According to the Saugerties Police Department, Ulster County 911 received a call on Thursday, May 28th, 2026, at approximately 3:32 a.m. reporting a residential structure fire at 638 Route 212 in Saugerties, NY. The caller also told dispatchers that one resident might still be trapped inside the burning home.

Police officers were among the first to arrive on scene and confirmed that the house was actively on fire. Authorities said several residents were able to safely escape the home before emergency crews arrived.

As firefighters from the Centerville Fire Department arrived, additional help was immediately requested, including the Glasco Fire Department’s FAST Team (Firefighter Assist and Search Team). Soon after, the fire was upgraded to a second alarm as crews battled the flames.

Firefighters Locate Deceased Woman

While firefighters worked to bring the fire under control, emergency crews conducted a primary search inside the home and located a victim on the second floor of the residence. Sadly, authorities said the victim had already succumbed to the fire.

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The victim has since been identified as 48-year-old Li-Anne M. Gableman, formerly of Wallkill, NY, according to WRGB.

Police also confirmed that five dogs of various breeds died in the fire.

Officials said neighboring fire departments helped contain the blaze and crews began overhaul operations within the first 30 minutes. However, emergency operations and the investigation were temporarily delayed due to severe structural damage caused by the fire.

Scene Cleared

The Dutchess County Special Operations Team was later called to the scene to help stabilize the structure so investigators could safely continue their work. Emergency crews remained at the scene for much of the day, and all assisting agencies cleared out at approximately 12:38 p.m.

At this time, the cause and origin of the fire remain under investigation by the Saugerties Police Department and the Ulster County Fire Investigation Unit.