Carroll County, Indiana – The arson fire that occurred on November 21, 2016 and resulted in the deaths of four children; Keyana Davis, 11; Keyara Phillips, 9; Kerriele McDonald, 7; and, Konnie Welch, 5 remains a very active investigation being led by the Indiana State Police with investigative assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF), the Indiana Department of Homeland Security State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Lafayette Fire Department.
The Carroll County Prosecutor, Robert Ives, has expressed his appreciation for the amount of investigative resources dedicated by each of the agencies engaged in this investigation as work continues to develop information to identify the person or persons responsible for the intentional setting of this fire. Prosecutor Ives also expressed that while he understands the level of public interest in this investigation, he is asking all investigative agencies to avoid further discussion of this active investigation which could impact successful prosecution of this case in the future.
In cooperation with the Carroll County Prosecutor’s Office, the Indiana State Police, and all other investigative agencies assisting with this investigation are honoring his request.
We also want to remind the media and public that there is a reward fund for information about this arson fire. Anyone with information about the Flora arson fire should contact the Indiana State Arson Hotline at 1-800-382-4628. Callers can remain anonymous and may receive up to $5,000 for information that leads to the arrest of the person(s) responsible.
Unfortunately there are elements of our society that try to profit from the tragedy of others and citizens are reminded to only donate to a trusted source. While there may be other legitimate funds established for the Flora fire, if citizens are not confident the source can be trusted, they are encouraged to direct their donation to the IDHS Flora Fire Reward. Citizens may send donations by check to the Indiana Department of Homeland Security, 302 W. Washington Street Room E208, Indianapolis, Indiana, 46204. To ensure the donation goes to the appropriate account, the memo line should read “Flora Fire Reward.”
On behalf of all agencies working to determine who the person or persons are that were responsible for the senseless loss of four innocent lives, we appreciate the public’s support.
SOURCE: News release from Indiana State Police