Community Grieves Loss of Four Young Sisters in Chadbourn House Fire

CHADBOURN, N.C. — A heartbreaking tragedy has left the town of Chadbourn reeling after four young sisters — Kendall, Kalani, Josie, and Sophia, ages 2 to 7 — died in a devastating house fire early Saturday morning.

Officials with the Columbus County Fire Marshal’s Office said emergency crews were dispatched to the home shortly after 12:30 a.m. when neighbors reported flames engulfing the residence. By the time firefighters arrived, the home was already consumed, making rescue efforts nearly impossible.

Authorities confirmed that no adults were inside the home at the time of the fire. Despite firefighters’ urgent attempts to reach the children, the blaze spread too quickly. The sisters were later pronounced dead at the scene. Their bodies have been transported to the North Carolina Medical Examiner’s Office for further examination.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Officials said it could take weeks before they know whether the blaze was sparked by electrical issues, an appliance, or other factors.

Neighbors recalled being woken by smoke and the sound of crackling flames. Several attempted to help but were forced back by the intensity of the fire. “It’s something I’ll never forget,” one neighbor said. “Those little girls were so full of life. The whole community is just heartbroken.”

The sisters’ deaths have shaken Chadbourn, a small rural town where residents say everyone knows each other. Community members described Kendall, Kalani, Josie, and Sophia as inseparable, always seen playing together outside or laughing at local gatherings.

“This is a loss that words can’t describe,” said a local pastor. “Four precious lives, taken far too soon. The entire town is grieving with this family.”

In the wake of the tragedy, local churches and nonprofits are rallying to support the family. Vigils are being planned to honor the sisters, with residents placing teddy bears, flowers, and candles near the site of the fire. Online fundraisers have also been launched to assist with funeral costs and to provide support in the difficult weeks ahead.

Counselors are being made available at area schools to help classmates and peers cope with the loss. Community leaders are urging residents to lean on one another during this period of unimaginable grief.

While investigators continue their work, one thing is clear: the memory of Kendall, Kalani, Josie, and Sophia will live on in the hearts of everyone who knew them. Their absence has left a hole in the Chadbourn community that will never be filled, but their spirits will be remembered as joyful, loving, and full of innocence.