Community hosts vigil for Smith Six roughly six months after tragic fire

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- The South Bend community gathered together Friday evening, hosting a vigil in memory of the six children who died in a house fire Jan. 21.

Friends, family, and community spent the day supporting the father of the six children who have become known as the Smith Six and only survivor of the fire, David Smith. They cleaned the area around the house, placing new stuffed animals, balloons and candles nearly seven months after the tragic loss.

“Everything is mellowing out, you know, but what do you really expect? You know? When tragedy hit and happens, you’ve got to just deal with it as best as you can,” said Smith.

Smith mentioned that right now, he is still in the dark about what happened on that night. Investigation have said the fire did not appear suspicious; they have still not released the cause.

The community says they still have some questions. Family friend Trysh Hilaman explaining she believes the house should be taken down.

“Looking at it today, that’s how I feel. If the house came down, instead of it totally being a memorial to the kids. Because the dad works here, goes by there, and you know every time he does, it’s got to break him apart,” said Hilaman.

After the fire, the First Source Bank took control of The Smith Family Memorial Fund. David Smith explained that while he has no control over those funds, he does receive money for bills.

“They pay a bill or two here or there for me, but as far as being the guardian of my own account or having the account, no they kind of control all that,” said Smith.