UPDATE: A heart-wrenching candlelight vigil took place in Porterville, California this evening as the community mourns the tragic loss of a family of five in a devastating fire late Sunday night. Friends and neighbors gathered at the site of the tragedy, lighting candles and sharing memories of the young children who perished: 18-month-old William, 2-year-old Buckley, 3-year-old Charlie, and 5-year-old Ruby.
“I haven’t stopped crying since I found out,” said Helen Sucrese, who cared for the children. The emotional gathering featured flickering candles, colorful balloons, and cherished photos, all testament to the vibrant lives lost. Sucrese described her deep bond with the children, recounting mornings filled with love and laughter. “Every morning, I would get kisses and hugs,” she said, reflecting on her time with them.
The tragic fire has left the community in shock, as the details continue to unfold. The Porterville Fire Department confirmed that the investigation into the cause of the fire could take several weeks. As the investigation progresses, the community is left to grapple with the profound grief of losing such young lives.
Friends have organized a donation initiative to support the family’s funeral expenses, urging contributions to the Porterville Funeral Home and Cremation Center. “The happy grin that [Buckley] would give me every morning… I put a truck on his balloon because it was his favorite,” Sucrese recalls, emphasizing the joy these children brought into her life.
Ruby, who had just started Kindergarten, was described as “full of joy,” with her auntie recalling how she would run to her each morning asking for help getting dressed. The somber vigil serves as a reminder of the fragile nature of life and the impact these children had on those around them.
As the community awaits further updates, the gathering tonight highlighted the importance of support and solidarity during this painful time. “It was just some of the best memories of my life,” Sucrese reflected, holding on to the cherished moments shared with the family.
Stay tuned for further developments as we await the funeral service dates and the results of the ongoing investigation. For updates on this story and more, follow Christina Lopez on X and Instagram.
