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The body of a “hero” 6-year-old boy was found trying to shield his little brother from a deadly house fire in Virginia, according to their dad – who proudly said his sons’ “big hearts” are being donated to help others.
William Brice and his 3-year-old brother, Zachariah, were at home with their grandparents and 8-year-old brother Logan when the residence went up in flames on April 10, dad James Brice told PEOPLE.
Logan and the grandparents made it out safely, but William and Zachariah were found huddled together, and pronounced dead four days later — still side-by-side.
“They told us that when William and Zach were found, William was actually covering and protecting Zachariah like a shield,” their dad said.
“We knew that to be his character because that’s just who he is. He, himself, is a hero.”
The two little boys had a special bond, James added.
“Zachariah was always following William everywhere and William was so proud. He would tell everyone, ‘That’s my baby brother,’ ” he explained.
James and the boys’ mom, Reina, were at work when the fire started. Their oldest son, 13-year-old Seth, was at work with his mom.
After they were found huddled together, William and Zachariah were unresponsive for 45 minutes, with their family desperately praying they would pull through.
“We were frightened to death. When they told us our two kids were really sick and really hurt we went into panic mode and just started praying,” James said.
Tragically, however, both boys were declared brain dead due to the effects of smoke inhalation. They were side-by-side in a hospital when they were finally pronounced dead on April 14.
“It was really painful because we could still see the heartbeat. Ultimately when they got to the testing there was no response and they weren’t able to do anything on their own,” the grieving dad added.
Tragically, however, both boys were declared brain dead due to the effects of smoke inhalation. They were side-by-side in a hospital when they were finally pronounced dead on April 14.
Last Thursday, Children’s National Hospital held a tearful honor walk for William and Zachariah as they were brought to the operating room to donate their organs, a video from WUSA9 showed.
The youngsters will save up to nine lives, the outlet said.
“Their hearts are hopefully gonna go on and the recipients are going to be able to have those big hearts in them,” James Brice said.
William and Zachariah will be honored with a celebration of life this Saturday, and the family’s church in Springfield, WUSA9 added.
Attendees are asked to wear green or blue – the boys’ favorite colors – or come as characters, superheroes or NFL players.
“It was dark, it was evil, but we’re not running away from it. We want to shine the light and help others who are hurting so we’re finding some purpose,” James said of the family’s ongoing grief.
“Here today it could be gone tomorrow. Enjoy each moment, tell your kids, tell your family you love them.”