The community of Ferguson, Missouri, was struck by an unfathomable tragedy recently, as a suspicious fire claimed the lives of a woman and four children. As authorities delve into the circumstances surrounding this devastating event, many are left wondering: Who was Bernadine Pruessner, and how did she and her children meet such a tragic fate?
Who Was Bernadine Pruessner?
Bernadine Pruessner was a beloved member of the community, known for her warmth, intelligence, and dedication to her family and career. Described by her father, Cordell Beache, as “an amazing person” with “very bright” children, Bernadine was deeply involved in her children’s lives and was close to completing her doctorate in early childhood education.
She worked as an assistant professor in the child development department at Lewis & Clark Community College in Godfrey, Illinois, where she touched the lives of many students and colleagues.
Bernadine Pruessner Death
On a fateful Monday morning, firefighters responded to a distress call reporting a fire engulfing a home in Ferguson at 4:23 a.m. The scene they encountered was one of horror, with the building consumed by flames. Tragically, the five individuals found inside the home, including Bernadine Pruessner and her four children, did not survive the blaze.
How Did Bernadine Pruessner Die?
Authorities swiftly launched an investigation into the suspicious fire, with St. Louis County police Sgt. Tracy Panus acknowledged that “evidence located on the property” raised suspicions regarding the cause of the fire. However, details regarding the ongoing investigation have been limited, as police work alongside St. Louis Regional Bomb and Arson detectives to unravel the circumstances surrounding this tragedy.
Remembering the Victims
Bernadine Pruessner’s impact on those around her was profound, as neighbors and relatives fondly recall her vibrant spirit and the joy she brought to others. Tyler Justice, a relative, described Bernadine as someone who could brighten anyone’s day with her infectious positivity.
Moreover, her children—twin 9-year-olds Ellie and Ivy Pruessner, 5-year-old Jackson Spader, and 2-year-old Millie Spader—were remembered as “some of the smartest, brightest kids you could have, and full of life just like she was.”
Community Response
In the wake of this tragedy, the Ferguson Police Department and the community at large have come together to offer support and condolences to the grieving family and first responders. The department shared poignant images of firefighters battling the blaze on social media, expressing solidarity with the affected family and urging the community to keep them in their thoughts and prayers.
Neighbor Jerry McClure, who witnessed the inferno, recounted his desperate attempts to alert the occupants of the home, underscoring the sense of shock and helplessness experienced by those who witnessed the tragedy unfold.
The loss of Bernadine Pruessner and her four children has left a profound void in the hearts of their loved ones and the Ferguson community. As authorities continue their investigation into the circumstances surrounding this tragic event, it is essential to remember and honor the lives of those lost.
Bernadine’s legacy as a dedicated educator, loving mother, and cherished member of the community will endure, serving as a testament to the enduring impact of her kindness and compassion.