WASHINGTON — A Southeast D.C. family is reeling from the tragic loss of their beloved mother, Margaret McKinnon, 85, and brother, Ronald McKinnon, 64, in a devastating house fire that has been confirmed as an act of arson. Authorities have arrested Robert Simpson, 53, in connection with the fire, which took place Oct. 6, and have charged him with felony murder and arson.
The McKinnon family is not only grieving the loss of their loved ones but is also facing the destruction of their family home — a place that had stood for over 50 years. A GoFundMe has been established to help the family honor Margaret and Ronald with the dignity they deserve and begin the long road to recovery after their loss.
Family says Margaret McKinnon was a pillar of her community, dedicating her life to caring for others as a loving mother and grandmother. Her son Ronald, known for his joyful spirit, spent his final days tenderly caring for her as she battled dementia. Together, they embodied the heart and soul of their family, always bringing joy to those around them.
In the early hours of Oct. 6, a fire broke out at their home on 23rd Street and Southern Avenue Southeast, tragically claiming the lives of both Margaret and Ronald, along with 34-year-old Jessica Cunningham. Firefighters found Ronald and Jessica dead on the second floor, while Margaret was rescued using a ladder and taken to an area hospital in critical condition. She died the following day.
The McKinnon family is now asking for the community’s support during this devastating time. Their GoFundMe campaign aims to cover the funeral expenses for both Margaret and Ronald.
"This home, which has been in our family for more than 50 years, held over four generations of love, laughter, gatherings, and memories that have now been reduced to tears and ashes," the family wrote on their GoFundMe page. "We need your help to send Margaret and Ronald to their final resting place with the dignity, respect, and peace they both deserve."
As the investigation into this arson attack continues, the community is rallying around the McKinnon family, offering support in the wake of this senseless tragedy. The family’s strength in the face of such loss is evident, with Teresa McKinnon, Ronald’s sister, saying, “Everybody in the neighborhood knew all of them. There’s nothing to process right now because I’ve got to be the strong person.”
The GoFundMe campaign is a way for the community to offer a helping hand, ensuring that this family, who has endured so much, can give their loved ones a proper farewell.
If you would like to support the McKinnon family during this time, you can donate to the verified GoFundMe here.