A woman and her three children were found dead from apparent gunshot wounds Tuesday in a burning house in Indiana, according to a local outlet.
Authorities identified the victims as 35-year-old Naomi Briner and her children, 12-year-old Adelia, 8-year-old Leland and 6-year-old Iyla, according to WLKY. Authorities have since assured the public there is no ongoing threat, though the investigation remains active, according to the outlet. Following the firemen’s discovery, the Indiana State Police and fire marshals reportedly got involved in the investigation.
ISP: Mother, 3 children found dead with apparent gunshot wounds after Madison house fire | Click on the image to read the full story https://t.co/5goSuOoueB
— WLKY (@WLKY) December 14, 2023
Sgt. Stephen Wheeles of the ISP acknowledged the emotional weight of the case and emphasized the importance of a thorough investigation, WLKY reported. “It’s our duty to explore every possible angle to uncover what transpired in this home, with the hope of eventually bringing solace to the affected family,” Wheeles said, according to WLKY. (RELATED: Mother Of 5 Shot And Killed After Kids Found Gun In Purse, Police Say)
“It’s a heart-wrenching tragedy. These children had their entire lives ahead of them. Now, they’re in a better place, but the loss is immense,” Carol Woodfill, a neighbor, told WLKY.
Another neighbor, Ralph Dean Jr., recounted hearing what he thought were gunshots or an explosion, followed by the sight of flames, according to the outlet.
“Seeing the playset where the children used to be lively and joyful brings a profound sense of sadness,” Dean noted, WLKY reported.