A neighbor, Sharon, described the boys as “the nicest little boys,” noting their enthusiasm for school. “They thought school was the coolest thing ever, and they were so cute,” she said. Because the school had canceled lessons to protect children from the cold, Jaiden, who had just started kindergarten, and Julian were at home when the explosion occurred.
When firefighters arrived at the scene, the house was already engulfed in flames, preventing them from reaching the boys in time. Dan, Chief of the New Melle Fire Protection District, stated that the firefighters entered through a window in search of the children but were hindered by the intense fire. Sadly, the boys’ bodies were discovered later.
Sharon reported hearing an explosion-like sound coming from the residence.
She expressed gratitude for the community’s response, stating, “Thank God, we didn’t know we were going to lose the two little boys, but everyone came running to help. What transpired is really tragic.” She added that neighbors Nick and Travis attempted to reach the boys but were unable to do so due to the fire’s intensity.
The cause of the explosion and fire remains under investigation.
The family is facing the financial burden of arranging two funerals while coping with the loss of their home and possessions. The GoFundMe statement emphasizes the need for both financial and emotional support: “The family will need your prayers and emotional support as they grieve the loss of two special little boys in addition to your financial contributions.”
Neighbor Laura stopped by to place a Christmas wreath on a water pump near the wrecked house, adding two plush animals to it. She reflected on the boys, saying, “Those boys appeared content. They were intelligent. They were happy. They were loved.” The community continues to rally around the family during this difficult time, offering love and support in the face of unimaginable loss.