Wake County House Fire Claims Lives of Shannon Collins, Bella Collins, and Jalen Collins
Garner, NC – A devastating tragedy unfolded Tuesday morning in the quiet Garner community of Wake County when a house fire claimed the lives of three family members: 49-year-old Shannon Collins, his 13-year-old daughter Bella Collins, and his 15-year-old son Jalen Collins.
The Wake County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the incident occurred shortly before 9:40 a.m. on Tuesday, June 24, when multiple fire departments responded to a home on Rand Road, near the intersection of Ten Ten Road. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy smoke and immediately began rescue operations.
Tragic Discovery Inside the Home
During their search of the residence, firefighters made a heartbreaking discovery: Shannon Collins and his two teenage children, Bella and Jalen, were found inside the home, unresponsive. All three were tragically pronounced deceased at the scene. Two family pets—beloved cats—were also found deceased inside the house, further deepening the sorrow.
According to investigators, the cause of the fire remains undetermined at this time. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner is conducting autopsies to determine the cause and manner of death for each of the victims, including whether smoke inhalation or other factors were involved.
Sheriff’s Office Statement and Ongoing Investigation
Wake County Sheriff Willie Rowe expressed his condolences in a public statement:
“The entire Sheriff’s Office is thinking about and praying for the loved ones of the victims. A tragedy like this impacts the entire community, and we understand there are questions that may arise. Our investigators and partnering agencies are working diligently to conduct a thorough investigation. We ask for your patience as that work continues.”
At this time, no foul play has been confirmed, but officials are carefully examining all possibilities. The scene has been secured for a comprehensive forensic review as part of an active investigation.
Remembering the Victims
The loss of Shannon, Bella, and Jalen Collins has sent shockwaves throughout the community. Friends and neighbors remember Shannon as a devoted father, a hardworking man, and a familiar face around the neighborhood. Bella and Jalen, both students in the local school district, were described as bright, kind, and full of promise.
A neighbor who had known the family for years shared, “Shannon loved his kids more than anything. They were a quiet, sweet family. This is a tragedy beyond words.”
Community Support and Emergency Response
The response to the incident included personnel from several local and state agencies, including:
- Garner Fire Department
- Cleveland Fire Department
- Fuquay-Varina Fire Department
- North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI)
- North Carolina Department of Insurance
- North Carolina Office of State Fire Marshal
- Wake County Bureau of Forensic Services
- Wake County Fire Marshal’s Office
- Wake County EMS
Their swift response was crucial in containing the fire and launching the investigation now underway.
Counseling and grief support services are being made available to students and community members impacted by the loss, particularly at the schools attended by Bella and Jalen.
Looking Ahead
Authorities ask for the public’s patience as they work through the forensic and investigative process. More information will be released as it becomes available, and officials are urging anyone with possible insight into the incident to contact the Wake County Sheriff’s Office.
Plans for a memorial service and a community vigil are currently underway. Neighbors have also begun placing flowers and messages of sympathy near the family’s home on Rand Road as a symbol of unity in grief.
In Loving Memory
Shannon Collins, Bella Collins, and Jalen Collins will be remembered for their love, light, and presence in the lives of those who knew them. Their tragic passing leaves a void that will be deeply felt throughout Wake County and beyond.
“Though their lives were short, their love will echo through the hearts of this community forever.”