Family of 6 Killed in Tragic House Fire. Loved Ones Raced to Scene and Saw ‘Nothing but Flames’

A family of six has died after their Florida home caught fire.

The Dixie County Sheriff’s Office said crews responded to a house fire in Old Town shortly before 7 a.m. local time on Tuesday, Feb. 17, according to WCJB.

Six people died in the blaze. The family identified the victims as Charles “Jelly Roll” Pinner Jr., his wife, Lori, and their four children, ages 11, 7, 3, and under 1 year old.

Bri Pinner, Charles’ sister, identified the children as Colton, Valkryie, Neveah, and baby Steven. The First Baptist Church of Old Town also confirmed the victims’ names in a statement.

Bri told WCJB that a cousin who lived nearby alerted her to the fire around 6:45 a.m. “We come out and see nothing but flames,” she said.

Nikie Waits, Charles’ aunt, said many people rushed to the scene to support the family, filling both sides of the street.

“There’s a hole there that will never be filled,” Waits told WCJB, describing Charles as “such an amazing person.”

Bri said her brother was “like a big teddy bear” who loved “hunting and anything he could do outdoors.” She added that he “was all about his family and kids,” saying, “Those kids were his world.”

In a statement, the sheriff’s office said it was “deeply saddened” by the tragedy and noted that first responders “worked tirelessly at the scene.”

“This is a heartbreaking event for our community,” authorities added. “We ask that you keep everyone affected in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.”

Friends and local businesses have been offering support to surviving members of the family, according to WFTV.

Horns and Scales Outfitters and Dixie Bakers are teaming up for an auction on Friday, Feb. 20, to benefit the family, according to a Facebook post shared by Jacklyn Griffis.

The First Baptist Church of Old Town said it will also help raise funds to assist with costs faced by surviving family members.

“They are cherished members of our community, and this loss is deeply felt,” church officials said. “As we navigate this shock, we stand with the surviving family members in love and support. May God’s peace that surpasses all understanding rest upon them.”

An investigation into what caused the fire is ongoing, according to WCJB.