A Missouri girl’s triumphant return home after beating cancer turned to tragedy when a holiday fire, likely sparked by fireworks, claimed her life and devastated her family.
On July 4, 2025, 13-year-old Ellie Harper of Independence, Missouri, died in a blaze that engulfed her family’s farmhouse, just weeks after being discharged from her battle with osteosarcoma. The fire, which injured her mother, Sarah Collins, and another man who later died, destroyed their home. Investigators point to smoldering fireworks from the previous night as the likely cause.
At 5 a.m., the Independence Fire Department rushed to 1101 North Lake City Valley Road in Buckner, Jackson County. Flames had overtaken the farmhouse, and despite an aggressive response, Ellie was found dead inside. Sarah remains hospitalized with severe injuries, and a firefighter was also hurt, said Ellie’s father, Tom Harper.
The Missouri Division of Fire Safety traced the fire to the back deck, where used fireworks were found. “Smoldering fires can go unnoticed for hours,” said Fire Chief Daniel Brooks. “They can ignite suddenly, with devastating results.” The absence of a working smoke alarm worsened the tragedy, as Chief Brooks noted alarms “save lives by giving early warnings.”
The loss has shaken the community. “This family won’t see July 4 the same way again,” said Battalion Chief Mark Ellis. Peer counselors supported firefighters grappling with the tragedy. Tom described Ellie as a “radiant spirit” whose art—handmade gifts for her hospital staff—reflected her warmth during her cancer fight at Children’s Mercy Hospital.
Ellie completed treatment in June 2025, leaving behind a heart-shaped craft signed by her care team. “She fought so hard,” said Greg Miller, a family friend. “Her love for life was infectious.” Tom misses her “tight hugs” most, cherishing her vibrant soul.
A GoFundMe, “Support Tom & Sarah After Heartbreaking Fire,” launched by friend Laura Bennett, has raised over $10,000 toward $12,000 to cover Ellie’s funeral, Sarah’s medical bills, and lost possessions. The campaign calls Ellie “a brave, shining light” whose loss is “unimaginable.”
Social media tributes poured in. On July 4, neighbor Clara Evans called Ellie “a warrior” who beat cancer only to face this tragedy, urging prayers for Sarah. A Make-A-Wish volunteer, Emily Carter, recalled Ellie’s dream of visiting Hawaii, mourning the loss of “a joyful soul.” Greg posted, “She’s watching over us now.”
The fire was one of five fireworks-related incidents in Missouri that holiday, per State Fire Marshal Tim Reed. He warned against mishandling fireworks, noting their flash powder’s volatility. “This holiday brought more fire-related losses than any in recent memory,” he said, urging caution.
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