Missouri House Fire Kills Teen Cancer Survivor, Second Victim

Jerilynn Brown, a 13-year-old girl from Missouri, tragically died in a house fire caused by smoldering debris from Fourth of July fireworks just weeks after she had beaten a two-year battle with osteosarcoma, a form of bone cancer. The fire, which started on the covered back deck of the farmhouse, also claimed the life of 52-year-old Marc Anthony Young Sr., who succumbed to severe burns days later. Jerilynn's mother, Liz Stephens, remains hospitalized and fighting for her life due to injuries sustained in the blaze. Officials noted the home had no working smoke detectors at the time, highlighting the dangers of smoldering fires and the importance of fire safety and properly functioning smoke alarms. Jerilynn was remembered as a bright, brave soul who had shown immense gratitude to hospital staff during her cancer treatment, and her loss has deeply affected her family and community. Fire officials and the family have used this tragedy to raise awareness about fireworks safety and the critical need for smoke detectors in homes.