Father of Children Killed in Missouri House Fire Speaks Out about Tragic Murder-Suicide

In a heartbreaking incident, four children and their mother lost their lives in a Missouri house fire that has been classified as a murder-suicide. The victims include Bernadine Pruessner, 39; Ivy Pruessner, 9; Ellie Pruessner, 9; Jackson Spader, 6; and Millie Spader, 2.

Father's Heartfelt Tribute

Jared Spader, the father of two of the children, expressed his profound grief and love for his lost children. He fondly referred to them as the “greatest gift” and emphasized their positive impact on his life. He shared, “They were the two most beautiful souls that a father could ask for, and they were a gift to our lives in every way.”

Tragic Circumstances

The St. Louis County Police Department revealed that the fire was intentionally started by Bernadine Pruessner, who tragically took the lives of her children in a moment of despair. The authorities stated, "Preliminary investigation has revealed this to be a murder/suicide," shedding light on the devastating events that unfolded.

Remembering the Children

Jared Spader also shared heartwarming memories of his children, depicting their beautiful personalities and vibrant spirits. Jackson was described as kind, intuitive, and gentle, while Millie was remembered as funny, charismatic, and kindhearted. The outpouring of love for the children has been evident, with a GoFundMe campaign initiated to support a memorial service for the young victims, which has already raised nearly $50,000.

Litigation and Tragic Consequences

As the community grapples with the profound loss, details emerged about Bernadine's legal battles with the fathers of her children. Court records indicated ongoing custody disputes, which had evidently taken a toll on her well-being. In a statement from her family’s attorney, it was expressed that Bernadine faced immense challenges due to the litigation, ultimately leading to the devastating outcome.

Seeking Support

Amid this tragedy, it is crucial to raise awareness about mental health and provide support to those in distress. The statement from the family’s attorney highlighted Bernadine's past as a professor in early education, shedding light on the immense impact she had in her community. It also included important resources for individuals who may be contemplating suicide, underscoring the significance of seeking help in times of crisis.

Memorial Service and Community Response

A service to honor the four children is scheduled to take place, bringing the community together to mourn the loss and celebrate the lives of the young souls. The overwhelming response from individuals and the initiative to support the memorial service underscore the collective compassion and empathy in the wake of this devastating event.