Local News
Jessica Sellers and her three children killed in Carrollton house fire
First responders were able to rescue a young girl, believed to be around 3 years old, from the back of the burning home.
Carrollton, KY – The Carroll County Coroner’s Office has identified the victims of a devastating house fire that occurred on October 17th in Carrollton, Kentucky.
Jessica Sellers, 42, her daughter Emilee Boswell, 25, her son Coleton Sellers, 18, and her 10-year-old son Deacon Sellers perished in the fire.
Carrollton Police Department responded to a report of a house fire at a residence on 5th Street around 6:00 AM. Officers arrived within minutes but were unable to enter the fully engulfed house due to the intense heat.
A 3-year-old child was rescued from the scene and transported to a local hospital, where she later received further medical attention in Louisville. Her condition is reported to be improving.
After multiple days of efforts, authorities were able to recover the bodies of the four family members who lost their lives in the fire. A GoFundMe campaign has been established to support the surviving family members.
The tragedy has deeply impacted the small community of Carrollton, with a population of less than 4,000. Dave Roberts, a Carrollton Police Department officer, described the incident as a “terrible tragedy” that will take a long time for the community to heal from.
Carroll County Community Hospital hosted a vigil for two of the victims, expressing their sorrow and acknowledging the positive impact the individuals had on their organization and the community.
Donations were collected during the vigil to support the affected family. The City of Carrollton has also provided counseling assistance to first responders who may need support in coping with the tragic event.
The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing.
It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Deputy Sheriff Carl “Little Chief” Jensen, a deeply respected and dedicated member of the Little River County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputy Jensen was found deceased earlier this evening after he did not report for his scheduled shift.
Deputy Jensen was more than a colleague—he was a cherished brother in uniform, a trusted protector of the community, and a steadfast public servant whose presence will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege of working alongside him.
Carl’s journey into law enforcement was driven by a passion to protect those who could not protect themselves.
After completing college, he began his career with Adult Protective Services, investigating allegations of abuse and exploitation in state hospitals, group homes, and home health care settings.
It was during one such case—uncovering the truth behind a complex exploitation investigation—that Carl realized his calling. “I got bit by the law enforcement bug that day,” he once said. “I wanted to help protect and bring justice to those who need it.”
Throughout his career, Deputy Jensen demonstrated extraordinary empathy, integrity, and resilience. He often reflected on the emotional weight of his work, especially when responding to calls on what could be the most difficult days in people’s lives.
“Sometimes, people don’t realize that we’re there to help everyone involved,” he shared. “Even on what could be their worst day, I can do my best to make it better—or at least keep them calm.” His compassion and humanity set an example for us all.
Our deepest condolences and unwavering support go out to Deputy Jensen’s family during this incredibly painful time.
We ask the community to join us in keeping his loved ones and our department in your thoughts and prayers as we grieve this heartbreaking loss.
Deputy Carl Jensen’s legacy of service, kindness, and courage will never be forgotten.
We are grateful for his life, his dedication, and the profound impact he had on those he served and served with.