In Defiance, Missouri, two young boys, Julian (4) and Jamison Keiser (6), tragically lost their lives after an explosion and fire destroyed their family home. The incident occurred early Friday morning, leaving the community in mourning. Neighbors remembered Julian and Jamison as “kind-hearted” and joyful children.

The boys’ mother, Evelyn Turpiano, and their grandparents, Jennifer and Vern Ham, escaped the blaze. Despite the efforts of firefighters, intense flames prevented rescuers from reaching the boys in time. The cause of the explosion is under investigation, with hopes for answers to help the grieving family.

The Hoffmann Family of Companies, which owns the property, extended condolences, expressing deep sorrow for the family’s loss. Known for revitalizing the area, the Hoffmanns have offered support to aid the family.

A GoFundMe campaign has raised over $145,000 for funeral expenses and rebuilding. The support from friends, neighbors, and strangers has been immense.

Local resident Laura Emerson placed a Christmas wreath with stuffed animals near the home’s remains, honoring Julian and Jamison’s bright spirits. Our thoughts are with the Keiser family and Defiance community as they endure this painful loss.