What a tragedy! The whole country is mourning the passing. When you find out who it is, you will cry
A devastating house explosion occurred in Defiance, Missouri, on Friday morning, resulting in the tragic deaths of two young brothers, Julian Keiser, aged 4, and Jamison Keiser, aged 6. The incident took place on a day when local schools had canceled classes due to severe weather conditions, leaving the boys at home with their family.
Their mother, Evelyn Turpiano, along with their grandparents, Jennifer and Vern Ham, were able to escape the burning residence. Despite the prompt response from first responders, the children could not be saved in time.
Chief Dan Casey of the New Melle Fire Protection District stated that the severity of the fire hindered the quick location of the boys. “The fire prevented them from being found right away,” he elaborated, detailing the difficulties faced by firefighters during their rescue attempts.
Neighbors expressed their shock at the tragedy. Sharon Oberlag, a nearby resident, remembered Julian and Jamison as “the nicest little boys” who had an immense passion for school. “They thought school was the coolest thing ever,” she reminisced.
The home belonged to the Hoffmann Family of Companies, who conveyed their profound sorrow. In a statement, they expressed, “Our hearts are with the member of our team and their family who lost their children and grandchildren.”
Community members swiftly came together to support the grieving family. A GoFundMe campaign initiated by Dan Tripp, co-owner of Good News Brewing, has already garnered over $145,000. The donations will assist with funeral expenses and aid the family in rebuilding their lives.
Evelyn and her mother Jennifer, both actively involved in the Defiance Merchants Association, have been integral members of the community that is now rallying around them. “This is about surrounding them with love and support,” Tripp remarked.
Neighbor Laura Emerson placed a Christmas wreath at the site of the house, honoring the boys as “intelligent, happy, and loved.” She stated that their memory will continue to shine as a beacon in the community.