BULLHEAD CITY, Ariz. — A candlelight vigil was held Wednesday for five children who were killed when a fire swept through a Bullhead City home while the father of four of the children shopped for Christmas gifts.
Dozens of people gathered to remember the children, who were in an upstairs room when officials said the fire swept up the stairs, blocking their escape to the front door. The fire happened Saturday afternoon around 5 p.m. in a neighborhood near Ramar and Hancock roads in Bullhead City. Police say no adults were present when the fire occurred and later said the father was out buying groceries and Christmas shopping.
The children ranged in age from 2- to 13-years-old. Four of the deceased children were siblings who lived at the residence and the fifth child was a visiting relative, a police department spokesperson said.
Mayor of Bullhead City, Steve D'Amico, recently announced the children will be laid to rest at no cost to their family. Dimond and Sons, a funeral home in Bullhead City, told D'Amico the costs of the funerals are covered.
D'Amico expressed his condolences to the family in a short video Tuesday.
"Your loss is the community's loss and we're grieving with you," D'Amico said. "This tragedy has shaken the community."
A vigil will be held to remember and honor the children on Wednesday, Dec. 20 at Rotary Park, near Lakeside and Riverview drives in Bullhead City.
"I have seen the flowers, stuffed animals and candles that now rest in front of the home," D'Amico said. "All are welcome to attend the vigil to grieve in peace."
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