A North Carolina mother, Reagan Powers, has been charged after her four young daughters tragically died in a house fire. The incident occurred early on Saturday, Aug. 30, when Powers reportedly called emergency services at around 2:30 a.m., informing them that her home was on fire and that her four daughters were trapped inside.
Fire Details
According to the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO), deputies arrived at the residence nine minutes after the initial call, only to find the home fully engulfed in flames. Due to the severity of the fire, emergency responders were unable to safely enter the home, and the four children—ages 2, 4, 6, and 7—died in the blaze.
Mother’s Alleged Actions
Reports indicate that Powers, 28, had left her children at home while she was not present when the fire started. She had reportedly left the children in the care of an 11-year-old. Powers was later arrested and charged with four counts of involuntary manslaughter and negligent child abuse with serious bodily injury on Wednesday, Sept. 10.
Legal Proceedings
Powers made her first court appearance on Thursday, Sept. 11, where she was informed that she faces a maximum of 59 months for each involuntary manslaughter charge and 88 months for each count of negligent child abuse. Her bond was initially set at $400,000, but she has since bonded out.
Father’s Statement
The children’s father, Patrick Ellis, expressed his grief, saying, “My heart is shattered beyond words at the loss of my daughters.” Over 100 people attended a memorial service for the children at a funeral home in Chadbourn on Tuesday, Sept. 9.
Community Impact
The tragic loss of these young lives has left the community in mourning, with family, friends, and residents coming together to remember the children and support one another through the devastating event.
