The quiet stillness of a December morning in Evergreen was shattered by a tragedy that has left a community heartbroken. Two young lives, Demetrius Bradley, 22, and Damaya Bradley, 26, were cut short when a fire tore through a home on Newton Parkway. The siblings, known for their bright smiles and even brighter futures, were found inside the residence by emergency crews who arrived shortly after the first 911 call at 12:49 a.m. on Saturday.
Neighbors say the scene was chaotic as firefighters battled the flames, but despite their speed, the fire had already taken its toll. The Conecuh County Coroner’s Office arrived on the scene and confirmed the devastating news that neither sibling had survived. It is the kind of news that stops a small town in its tracks, turning a season of celebration into one of deep, collective mourning.
Demetrius and Damaya were more than just siblings; they were the heart of their family. Friends describe Demetrius as a young man with a contagious laugh, while Damaya was seen as a protective and loving older sister. They were the kind of people who made Evergreen feel like home. Now, the house on Newton Parkway stands as a somber reminder of how quickly life can change, leaving behind an emptiness that words can’t quite fill.
In the days following the fire, the Bradley family has been surrounded by a wave of support. Local vigils have seen neighbors holding candles and sharing stories of the two young souls who were taken far too soon. It’s in these small moments—the shared tears and the tight hugs—that the community is trying to find some semblance of peace. The loss is heavy, but the love for the Bradleys is clearly visible in every corner of the town.
Authorities are still working to piece together exactly what happened that night. The Alabama State Fire Marshal’s Office is leading the investigation to find the cause of the blaze. Meanwhile, the siblings have been transported to the Alabama Department of Forensic Science for autopsies. While the technical details are being handled by officials, the people of Evergreen are focused on the human side of the tragedy.
This loss serves as a painful reminder of the fragility of life. A house can be rebuilt, but the presence of two vibrant young people is irreplaceable. The community isn’t just mourning two names on a report; they are mourning the dreams those two had and the many years they should have had left to live them. Evergreen has a long road of healing ahead, but they are walking it together.
As the sun sets over Conecuh County, the memory of Demetrius and Damaya remains a guiding light for those who knew them. Their lives were brief, but their impact was undeniable. For now, the town of Evergreen stands united, honoring two of their own and holding the Bradley family close in prayer, hoping to find strength in the face of such an unimaginable loss.
