In a gesture of compassion, NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal has pledged to cover all funeral and related memorial expenses for four young sisters who died in a house fire in Chadbourn, North Carolina. He is working in partnership with the Henry County Sheriff’s Office to support the grieving family.
What Happened
On August 30, 2025, a fire engulfed the home of Patrick Ellis in Chadbourn. The blaze claimed the lives of his four youngest daughters: Kalani Rae, Kendall Xaiya, Josephina Renee, and Sophia Nachelle, aged between 2 and 7. Patrick and his oldest daughter, 11-year-old Willow, survived the fire.
Legal Developments
The girls’ mother, Reagan Noelle Powers, has been charged with four counts of involuntary manslaughter and negligent child abuse with serious bodily injury. Authorities allege that she was not present in the home during the fire and had left the younger children under the supervision of the 11-year-old sister.
Shaquille O’Neal’s Involvement
Moved by the tragedy, O’Neal — who serves as the Director of Community Relations for the Henry County Sheriff’s Office — contacted Sheriff Reginald Scandrett and offered to help. The joint effort between O’Neal and the Sheriff’s Office will fully cover the costs of the funerals and memorial for the four girls, lifting the financial burden from the family.
According to O’Neal, the gesture was driven by what he described as a moral responsibility. “These were innocent lives, full of promise, taken far too soon,” he said. He added, “You are not alone in your pain. We see you. We mourn with you and we’re here to help you carry this burden…”
Sheriff Scandrett echoed the sentiment, saying the loss the family has endured “shakes us all to our core.” He said that the goal is to remind the Ellis family “they do not walk this journey alone.”
Looking Ahead
A memorial service to honor the four sisters is scheduled for September 13, with participation from the Henry County Sheriff’s Office and community members.
Meanwhile, the cause of the fire is under investigation. Authorities are also handling the legal proceedings against Reagan Powers, who has been released on bond and will appear in court.
This act of kindness has been widely praised in media and local circles, and the family has expressed deep gratitude for the support they’ve received.
