Family of Cashmere Parker gets outpouring of support a week after his death in Harnett Co.

DUNN, N.C. (WTVD) -- Community members gathered at Pizza Inn in Dunn on Saturday to support the family of 7-year-old Cashmere Elijah Parker, whose death in a fire on July 4 has left relatives and neighbors grieving.

The event drew large crowds seeking to honor Cashmere and assist his family as they prepare for his funeral Tuesday in Dunn.

Cashmere was at home with his family on July 4 when an illegal firework set off nearby struck his apartment complex, trapping him inside a room.. The fire killed Cashmere, injured his father and left several neighbors without homes.

A neighbor, Brittany Armstrong, is facing involuntary manslaughter charges in connection with the incident. Gloria Parker, Cashmere's mother, said the community's response has provided comfort during an unimaginable loss.

"It just shows me that my baby was loved," Parker said. Pizza Inn owner Rhonda Rios said she organized the effort after learning what had happened and seeing a desire within the community to help. "We're busy all day, we have been lined up out the door, we have had so much outpouring of love and support," Rios said.

Family members said the support has helped them endure the days following Cashmere's death. "It has been amazing seeing everyone come together and just feel our pain and be willing to step in and help in a time of need," said Alicia, Cashmere's sister.

As the family prepares for Tuesday's funeral, Parker said the community's kindness has given her strength. "I'm going to try and rest, and try and eat as much as I can because y'all built my strength up with all the love and support," she said.

The gathering served as a show of solidarity for a family facing profound loss and a community mourning the death of a young child.

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