10-Year-Old Boy Found Dead after Tennessee Tornado – His Sister Was Trapped under Rubble With Him

Over the previous weekend, a Tennessee family found themselves in the pathway of a raging tornado that took not only their house but also a cherished family member. The Burnham family is now trying to rebuild their lives with the loving assistance of their community.

A Clarksville, Tennessee, family was left heartbroken and in mourning after they lost one of their three children because of the natural disaster that recently hit. The family's Henry Place Boulevard two-story home collapsed, trapping two children under some rubble.

Taking to her Facebook account the day after the natural disaster hit, the children's mother, Katherine Burnham, revealed that she, her husband, Kyle T. Burnham, and their family were not okay. Being in the direct path of the tornado, their son, Arlan Garrick Coty, 10, who was trapped with sister Ella, sadly never made it out of the house.

Little Ella suffered superficial injuries and was taken to a hospital before being released. A third child named Archer was lucky to be safe with his mother when the tornado hit. The Burnham's home was gone too, leaving Katherine and Kyle "absolutely devastated."

Katherine confessed that they didn't know how to navigate all that had happened to them. However, several people were on hand to assist them. Arlan's mother was grateful for those who helped dig through the rubble, looking for the boy's fourth-grade West Creek Elementary School drawings and other stuff.

People still called asking how they could help, but Katherine didn't have a response. The only thing she truly wanted couldn't be brought back. While their friends and neighbors helped feed them and do laundry, Wyatt Johnson Toyota, the car dealership Katherine works for — opened a GoFundMe account.

By December 12, 2023, the fundraiser had gathered over $170,000 against a goal of $5,000. The account was created by Brian Burkeen, Katherine's work supervisor, who said the funds would go to assisting with Arlan's funeral expenses, rebuilding their home, and replacing essential belongings, with him stating:

"No donation is too small..."

Brian felt any amount could make a difference in helping the Burnhams to move forward. He also asked people to continue keeping the family in their prayers and thoughts and to give messages of support through this difficult time.

Some of the items the family needed to replace were their clothes. The foursome shared a list of sizes for each one's pants, shirts, and shoes. Those who wish to donate physical items can send them to Wyatt Johnson Toyota at 2595 Wilma Rudolph Boulevard.

Kyle's wife asked people to help however they could and to be there for them. She also hoped they'd come through when they finally got to honor the late Arlan before declaring her love to them all.

Billy Urban, their neighbor, was the one who pulled the Burnham children from the debris. He's the one credited with saving little Ella's life. Katherine described her late son as "amazing," revealed that no one was like him, and noted how everyone who came across him is currently experiencing loss.

Brian described the Burnham family as "great" and "wonderful." He said they are trying to patch things together. On December 11, 2023, Katherine shared several Facebook images of Arlan from infancy until he reached ten.

The little boy appeared alongside his parents and siblings and even in a short video. Kyle's son seemed like a happy boy as he was photographed and recorded while smiling in all the images, with Katherine revealing that Arlan was full of energy and filled with life at his tender age.

He was described as caring, compassionate, and a giver. The little boy was also intelligent and was meant to join a gifted program, but he was upset when he lost out on it. The child loved learning, with the family referring to the way he absorbed information by sharing "Arlan's Fun Facts," adding:

"He was fearless and a fierce protector of his siblings."

The Burnhams have received much assistance and support from their community, for which they share their gratitude. Arlan's funeral service was set for December 17, 2023, and people were asked to dress in purple, black, or gold, as the child's greatest passions were basketball and the Los Angeles Lakers.

A parent losing a child is one of the worst things that can happen. This was the case when a mother of two tried to save both children from a burning vehicle, but only one survived.