Community vigil rallies for family after 3 children killed in mobile home fire

(FOX 2) - In Imlay City a fire kills three young children leaving the entire community devastated.

Four other family members suffered life-threatening injuries. Tuesday evening relatives and friends are pulling together in a show of support.

"I can't (believe it) myself," said Jamie Makinka, a co-worker of the family's father. "Thinking it's not a dream, it's actually reality."

Surreal is the only way many could describe the tragedy that befell an Imlay City family. 

Neighbors, friends, co-workers and strangers gathered in front of the mobile home that caught fire early Tuesday morning to remember the three children who died in it: 6-year-old Keith; 5-year-old Keyondre; and 3-year-old Keyanna.

"Words can't explain how much we love those kids," said Mary Muholland, a family friend. "They meant a lot to her."

Their mother Krystal Whitney was able to escape the flames. Authorities rescued their father, Keith Kelly, and siblings 18-month-old Keyshawn and newborn Keyairah. All three are said to be in critical condition Tuesday. 

"Right now all you can do is pray," said Muholland. "Hold your loved ones, you never know what's going to happen."

Elizabeth Parrott is doing just that. Her daughter went to school with the three siblings who died in the house fire.

"When I found out, I set her down -she's 7 years old - and I tried to make sense to her the best that I could," Parrott said.

And as this tragedy attempts to break a family, a community stands ready to help hold them together.

"To see this many people out here, hit me," said Makinka. "I am glad to see this many people out here, plus more showing up."

Authories have not determined exact cause investigation ongoing. If you want to help the family you can do so with a donation via a GoFundMe account.