CHEROKEE COUNTY, S.C. — A devastating house fire early Sunday morning in Gaffney claimed the lives of four family members, leaving the small South Carolina community in mourning. Authorities said the blaze erupted inside a one-story wood-frame home on East Third Street shortly before 1:40 a.m.
According to the Cherokee County Coroner’s Office, one resident, identified as Kathy Shippy, managed to escape the burning house and ran across the street to a neighbor’s home to call 911. Surveillance footage from the neighbor’s doorbell camera showed the residence already engulfed in flames by the time emergency crews were alerted. Firefighters arrived within minutes but were unable to reach the victims in time due to the intensity of the blaze.
Coroner Dennis Fowler identified the deceased as Willie Morris, 38; Dakeyia Shippy, 25; Mason Issac, 4; and Jerekry McGill, 7 months. All four were residents of the home and relatives of the survivor. Preliminary investigations indicate that the fire began when Morris attempted to refuel a kerosene heater inside the house. The flammable liquid ignited unexpectedly, causing flames to spread rapidly through the structure.
Investigators said all four victims were discovered on the floor of the kitchen at the rear of the home, appearing to have been overcome by smoke as they tried to reach a window. Autopsies are scheduled to confirm the official causes of death and help determine the exact sequence of events that led to the tragedy. Authorities said there were no signs of foul play, but the final investigation results will be reviewed by multiple agencies.
Gaffney Fire Chief Jamie Caggiano expressed sorrow over the loss and issued a strong warning about the dangers of refueling heaters indoors. “Never attempt to refuel a heater inside your home or while it is still hot,” Caggiano said. “These devices can ignite flammable vapors in seconds, turning a small mistake into a deadly fire.” He urged residents to inspect heating equipment regularly and follow all manufacturer safety guidelines as temperatures continue to drop.
The incident is being jointly investigated by the Gaffney Fire Marshal’s Office, the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED). Local officials described the event as “heartbreaking” and extended condolences to the victims’ family and friends. Community members have since begun organizing support efforts for the lone survivor as Gaffney mourns the loss of an entire family.