Fire officials said the home was almost destroyed by the time firefighters arrived.
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A passerby had reported the blaze.
People in Platte, South Dakota are dealing with mixed emotions after learning that the death of a family of six was a murder-suicide. The fire was believed to be suspicious on Thursday.
Jackley called the deaths a “tragic loss” that has affected the entire community. “Based on evidence of foul play continuing to be uncovered, law enforcement remains committed to a complete and thorough investigation”, Attorney General Marty Jackley said in a press release.
The Westerhuis family attended First Reform Church. There are no other suspects, a spokeswoman for the office said.
Scott and Nicole Westerhuis grew up in the Platte area and returned to start a family after they each graduated from Northern State University. Scott, Nicole, and family were a big part of the district and they will truly be missed. “Supports will remain in place for as long as they’re needed”.
“We’re a close community”, Koops said.
“Putting it up there gives you hope that you know these kids can pull through and they can look at life and say it’s not over”. The two worked for Mid-Central Educational Cooperative, which provides special-education services to schools, according to Capital Journal. They provided speech, language and hearing services to the schools, according to the Capital Journal.
The state Education Department decided not to renew the $4.3 million contract in the wake of a state audit past year that took issue with Mid-Central’s documenting of some expenses. The audit found the company owed $214,000 to the state, which it paid. Scott and Nicole were employed at Mid-Central Cooperative for over a decade. We will share their stories and focus on the handsome smiles, youthful energy, and character each child portrayed on a daily basis. From front left: Jaeci and Kailey Westerhuis. Platte-Geddes School District Superintendent Joel Bailey told reporters that he was notified about the deaths of the four Westerhuis children late last week. Kailey enjoyed drawing pictures for teachers, classmates, and friends portraying her love for each of them. The couple frequently came with their four children into Werkmeister’s restaurant. Lorie Werkmeister, a restaurant owner in Platte, told the Argus Leader. He also went to church with the family, and knew her husband and children.
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“Their family was inseparable”, Kristina Sprik told the newspaper.
