Kansas City Family Mourns Loss Of 15-Year-Old In Apartment Fire
KANSAS CITY, KS — A Kansas City, Kansas family is grieving after a 15-year-old boy died in an apartment fire at the College Park Apartments last week. The blaze, which broke out on September 25 just before 6 p.m., claimed the life of Cristian Salazar-Alexander, leaving relatives and neighbors devastated as investigators search for the cause.
Remembering Cristian
Family members described Cristian as the heart of their household. “Honestly, Cristian was just so sweet,” said his cousin, Adrian Salazar. “He was literally a big teddy bear. He was always happy; he was the sunshine of our family.”
His great aunt, Katy Groves, shared similar memories. “He just had a glow about him. When we walked in the room, he just glowed. He was just everyone’s favorite. How could he not be, right?”
Outside the burned apartment, a memorial has grown with flowers, Disney stuffed animals, and toy cars, including his favorite Lightning McQueen car from the movie Cars. Cristian was also remembered for his love of music, often singing songs from Disney films. His cousin noted his favorite was “Remember Me” from Coco, calling it fitting because “he was very unforgettable.”
Family Struggles After Fire
The fire destroyed the apartment, leaving the family without a home. They are now staying with relatives while coping with the loss.
“If you were anything but happy, he would come over and rub your face,” Groves said. “He was always giving kisses. He’s missed. It’s just feeling that he’s not here and shocked that he’s not here, but keeping his memory alive, of course.”
A friend launched a GoFundMe campaign to help the family cover funeral expenses, medical bills, and recovery needs. Relatives said community support has been overwhelming. “They literally lost everything,” Adrian Salazar said. “Not only is the family coming together, but this shows the community coming together.”
Cause Under Investigation
The Kansas City Fire Department confirmed the fire started inside the College Park Apartments near 71st Street and Armstrong Avenue. Officials are continuing to investigate the cause and where the blaze began.
As the investigation continues, family and friends say they are holding onto Cristian’s memory, recalling his laughter, songs, and the joy he brought to everyone around him.
Do you live near College Park Apartments or have memories of Cristian you’d like to share? Join the conversation and share your condolences at NapervilleLocal.com, where we highlight the stories that shape our communities.
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