URGENT UPDATE: The community of Kenosha is in mourning after a devastating apartment fire claimed the lives of three children on Thanksgiving night. Friends and family gathered to pay tribute to Rylee, Alena, and Connor Kannin, who died while visiting their father.
A vigil held outside the apartment where the tragedy occurred drew dozens of attendees, who brought stuffed animals, flowers, and candles to honor the children. The atmosphere was heavy with grief as community members embraced, shared tears, and recounted cherished memories of the siblings. “They were taken too soon from us, and this was not supposed to happen to anybody,” said Chelsea Meeks, a close friend of the family and organizer of the vigil.
Community member Gregory Rawls spoke fondly of the close bond shared by the trio, stating, “I called them the three amigos in my brain. Whenever you saw one, you knew the other two; they can’t be that far apart.”
As the community seeks answers, investigations by the Kenosha police and fire departments are ongoing, looking into all possibilities with a “criminal investigative lens.” Despite the rigorous inquiry, authorities have confirmed that, as of now, there is no evidence of criminal activity connected to the fire.
“What really happened, how did it happen, how did it start? That’s the main thing that’s going through my head,” Rawls added, reflecting the sentiments of many who attended the vigil.
During the memorial, attendees sang songs, placed the children’s favorite toys, and expressed their love for Rylee, Alena, and Connor. “I hope that they are at peace and know that they were loved by more than just their family; they were loved by friends, teachers, just anybody who came in contact with them,” Meeks concluded.
The funeral for the children is scheduled for later this week, as the community continues to rally together in their time of grief. The loss of these innocent lives has left an indelible mark on Kenosha, prompting a heartfelt outpouring of support and solidarity as residents navigate this tragic event.
The latest updates and developments regarding the investigation and community memorial efforts will be closely monitored as the situation evolves.
