INDEPENDENCE, Mo. — A devastating fire at an apartment complex in a suburban area of Kansas City, Missouri, led to the tragic deaths of two adults and two children on Wednesday amidst freezing temperatures.

The fire broke out around 6 a.m. at Indy Ridge Apartments in Independence. Fire Chief Jimmy Walker confirmed that the victims, including children aged 3 and 8, were discovered after the flames were finally brought under control. “It is a sad day for the community,” Walker expressed during a press conference, emphasizing the need for unity in the aftermath.

The blaze caused substantial damage, affecting approximately two dozen units. Firefighters worked tirelessly for four hours to extinguish the fire, facing adverse conditions with winds reaching up to 24 mph and temperatures dropping to the 20s. Walker did not disclose the names of the victims, noting that efforts to notify their family members were still ongoing. Additionally, he mentioned that 32 individuals were displaced due to the incident, and two firefighters sustained burns while responding to the emergency. In response, the Red Cross has established an emergency shelter for those affected.

Carissa Schulke recounted her experience during the chaotic morning, stating that she was roused by loud popping sounds before the arrival of sirens. “Suddenly, they didn’t even knock on my door, they just broke in and shouted, ‘Hey, you need to get out, you need to get out,’” Schulke remembered, standing outside in the cold with her trembling dog while firefighters worked to control the flames.

Community members are now coming together in support of those who have lost their homes and loved ones, demonstrating resilience in the face of tragedy. The investigation into the fire’s cause is ongoing as authorities continue to provide assistance to the displaced residents.