NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal has stepped in to help a North Carolina family facing unimaginable loss. Four young sisters were killed in a house fire on Aug. 30. Now, with O’Neal’s help, all expenses related to their funeral and memorial will be covered.
The victims — girls aged between 2 and 7 — were all sisters. Their father, Patrick Ellis, and their 11-year-old sister survived. Authorities are still investigating the fire.
Shaquille O’Neal Steps in to Help Family in Need
O’Neal joined forces with multiple sheriffs from Georgia, Florida, and North Carolina to lift the financial burden from the Ellis family.
Sheriffs from Henry, Fulton, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb and Gwinnett counties in Georgia contributed, along with law enforcement partners in Florida.
In an official release, the Henry County Sheriff’s Office said the combined donations “fully cover the expenses associated with honoring the girls.”
“As a father, my heart is broken for the Ellis family,” O’Neal said. “What I can offer is love, support, and a promise that their lives will not be forgotten.”
Sheriff Reginald B. Scandrett of Henry County, Ga., also spoke of the tragedy in personal terms. “The loss the Ellis family has endured is one that shakes us all to our core,” he said. “Our goal is to remind them they do not walk this journey alone.”
In letters and public statements, Patrick Ellis expressed that his “heart was shattered beyond words.” He called his daughters “my joy, my light, and my purpose.” He also thanked supporters.
A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 13, in Columbus County to honor the sisters. Representatives from Henry County and other participating sheriffs will attend.
The cause of the blaze remains undetermined. Investigators continue probing what led to the tragic deaths.