Overview

• The Division of Fire Safety says its active investigation points to embers from consumer-grade fireworks as the most likely ignition source on the home’s back deck.
• Jerilynn Brown, who had celebrated beating osteosarcoma weeks earlier, and 52-year-old Marc Anthony Young Sr. both died from injuries sustained in the July 4 blaze.
• Jerilynn’s mother, Liz Stephens, remains hospitalized with life-threatening burns following her rescue from the fire.
• Independence Fire Chief Jimmy Walker highlighted that the absence of working smoke detectors may have delayed early warning and evacuation.
• Local fundraising efforts have established GoFundMe campaigns to cover medical treatments, funeral costs, and the family’s rebuilding needs.