Porterville fire victims identified and remembered as a loving and friendly family

PORTERVILLE, Calif. (KFSN) -- A growing memorial with teddy bears, flowers and pictures sits outside of this trailer home in Porterville.

It's where 18-month-old William, 2-year-old Buckley, 3-year-old Charlie and 5-year-old Ruby lived with their 34-year-old father, Cody Schuler.

All five died on Sunday, when their home caught fire shortly after 11 pm.

"I had someone call me at 1 am and tell me. I didn't believe it. I still don't believe it to be honest, but I know it happened," says Maddy, who had been friends with Cody for 20 years.

They last spoke on Sunday.

She tells Action News Cody's kids meant the world to him, and he would have done anything for them.

"The kids were sweet, they were loving. They would run up to anyone and give them a big hug," Maddy recalls.

Baby William, Buckey, Charlie and Ruby were unique in their own ways and were just as friendly as their dad, who had many friends.

"The funniest and sweetest guy. He would do anything for anyone, even if you didn't know who you were," expresses Maddy.

Five-year-old Ruby is described as happy and full of laughter.

A parent whose child attends Ruby's school says her child was loved by her classmates.

"My heart goes out to the mom. I can't imagine losing my kids, especially the way her kids were taken from her in such a tragic way. It hit most of the town, especially around the holidays," says Bea. "They hadn't even started living yet, and it all just got taken away from them."

Bea's co-worker, Lauren, mentions the tragedy is unimaginable.

"It's the holidays, which makes it even harder," she said.

Lauren shares that this is the second tragedy for the community in less than two weeks. They also lost a Parlier police officer who was a graduate of Porterville High School.

"Jesus Dario Corona was one of my close friends, and with this tragedy happening, it's like what is going on with the community," she said.

Lauren mentions that she and Bea went to say a prayer for the young family.

"I hope God guides them home," she said.

Five candles and five balloons with each of the victim's names on it, a reminder of their very short lives.

The Porterville Fire Department says it could take weeks for its investigation to be complete.

In the meantime, the family says any donations can go directly to the Porterville Funeral Home and Cremation Center.

People can donate in person at 765 W Henderson Ave, Porterville, CA 93257, or call (559) 784-6485.

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