An autopsy conducted this morning on the twin 2-year-olds who died last night in a fire at 8157 State Street Road, Batavia, indicate the boys died of smoke inhalation.
The Sheriff's Office also announced investigators believe the children were home alone at the time.
Last night witnesses, including the landlord, said the mother is believed to have left the house to go to the store for milk.
The boys are identified as Michael J. Gard and Micah G. Gard. The name of the mother has not been released.
The fire was reported at 9:59 p.m. when a resident of the upstairs apartment returned home and saw smoke and flames coming from the rear of the structure.
The boys were in a first-floor bedroom at the back of the house.
The Sheriff's Office said deputies were the first on scene but were unable to enter the structure because of heat and flames.
Firefighters arrived soon afternoon, knocked back the fire quickly, and located the boys, who were already deceased.
The cause of the fire has not been determined and the investigation is ongoing.
The investigation is being conducted by the Office of Emergency Management, Town of Batavia Fire Department and the Sheriff's Office.
The Sheriff's Office reports that more information will be released as it becomes available.
Previously:
This is just heartbreaking.
This is just heartbreaking. Two sweet angels gone from the world. My condolences to the family, friends and loved ones.