Overview of the Flora, Indiana Arson Murders
On November 21, 2016, four young sisters—Keyana Davis (11), Keyara Phillips (9), Kerriele McDonald (7), and Kionnie Welch (5)—were killed in an arson fire at their home at 103 East Columbia Street, Flora, Indiana, a small town of about 2,000 people in Carroll County. The fire, ruled intentional by investigators, also injured their mother, Gaylin Rose, and two responding officers. Despite an ongoing investigation led by the Indiana State Police (ISP), no arrests have been made as of November 2024, eight years later. The case remains unsolved, leaving the community and family seeking justice.
Victims
Keyana Davis, 11: The eldest sister, described as a leader among her siblings. Loved cheerleading with the Lafayette Diamonds squad.
Keyara Phillips, 9: Known for her bright smile and love of school. Enjoyed performing with her sisters at cheer competitions.
Kerriele McDonald, 7: A spirited girl who brought joy to her family. Shared her sisters’ passion for cheerleading.
Kionnie Welch, 5: The youngest, nicknamed “momma’s baby.” Loved cuddling with her mother, Gaylin, and cheerleading.
Timeline of Events (November 21, 2016)
- Approx. 4:00 AM: Firefighters, Flora Police, Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, and EMS responded to a house fire at 103 East Columbia Street. The two-story duplex was engulfed in flames and thick black smoke.
- Rescue Attempts:
- Gaylin Rose, the girls’ mother, tried to save her daughters but was overwhelmed by smoke and injured. She was hospitalized and released days later.
- Carroll County Deputy Drew Yoder rushed into the burning home multiple times, suffering critical injuries and smoke inhalation. He was pulled out by Flora Police Officer Josh Disinger, who was treated and released.
- A neighbor attempted to enter but was driven back by smoke.
- Outcome: All four sisters died of asphyxiation due to smoke inhalation. The fire’s intensity prevented any successful rescues.
Investigation
- Initial Findings: The fire’s cause was initially unclear due to extensive damage. Investigators suspected an appliance (e.g., a fridge) until K-9 units found no accelerants.
- Arson Ruling (January 28, 2017): The Indiana State Fire Marshal’s Office reclassified the fire as arson after detecting accelerants. Early reports claimed accelerants were found in “multiple locations,” but this was later amended to one room.
- Key Developments:
- Peer Review (January 2018): The Indianapolis Fire Department (IFD) confirmed the arson ruling after reviewing witness reports and conducting a physical examination.
- Resignations (2017): Fire investigator Dennis Randle resigned in June 2017 amid questions about the arson ruling’s accuracy. His son, Adam Randle, Flora Fire Chief, resigned in November 2017. Carroll County Prosecutor Robert Ives also stepped down in December 2017.
- NAACP Involvement (October 2017): The Indiana NAACP joined the investigation, citing concerns of a “bungled” probe and possible cover-up. ISP Superintendent Doug Carter defended the investigation, stating, “I’d give my life to find out who killed those little girls.”
- Letter to Gaylin Rose (July 2019): ISP offered Rose immunity regarding “alleged illegal drug activity” to discuss her associates, but she hasn’t met with investigators. Rose admitted to occasional marijuana use but maintains her innocence.
- House Demolition (2023): The home was demolished in August 2023 after a U.S. district court order, as it was no longer needed for the investigation.
- Lawsuit: Rose filed a federal lawsuit in 2018 against her landlord, alleging no working smoke detectors. The case settled in August 2024 under seal. A product liability case was dismissed in 2020.
- Current Status: As of November 2024, the investigation is active but has no suspects or arrests. ISP offers a $5,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. Tips can be submitted anonymously at 1-800-382-4628.
