Valentine’s Day horror: Two young children perish in Georgia home fire

Two young siblings tragically lost their lives in a house fire on Valentine’s Day in Georgia, leaving family, friends, and the community in shock.

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office said deputies responded around 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 14, to a fire at a home on Oak Meadow Circle, just outside Sandersville. 

Authorities have identified the victims as 7-year-old Christian Jackson and his 4-year-old sister Maliyah Russell. Sheriff Joel Cochran confirmed to People that the investigation is ongoing.

“The Georgia Fire Marshals Office has been called to aid the Sheriff’s Office in the investigation,” Cochran wrote in a Facebook post. “Please join me in praying for this family, our first responders, and our community in the days ahead.”

Christian and Maliyah were beloved students at Little People’s Paradise Daycare Center, which shared a statement on social media expressing deep grief.

“It is with heavy hearts that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of two of our precious students, Christian Jackson and Maliyah Russell,” the daycare wrote. 

“Our entire daycare family is grieving alongside their loved ones during this unimaginable time. Christian and Maliyah brought so much light, laughter, and joy into our classrooms. Their smiles, sweet spirits, and beautiful energy will forever be a part of our center and will always be remembered and cherished.”

The center added that it is offering support and age-appropriate guidance to staff and children as they process the loss.

Christian, a second-grader at Ridge Road Primary School in Sandersville, was remembered by the Washington County Public School District for his bright personality.

“Christian was known at RRPS for being extremely smart with a smile that always lit up the room,” Superintendent Timothy May said. 

“Our hearts are heavy for family, friends, teachers, classmates, and our WACO Community.”

Family members expressed disbelief over the tragedy. Tyra Stephens, a cousin of Christian and Maliyah’s mother, told WMAZ, “Feels like I'm in The Twilight Zone.

"I don't think it's really hit me 100% that I'm not gonna see Chris and Leah. It just doesn't feel real.”