The coroner's van just left the rental house next door to us.

[RamblingRose]

The family moved in on Christmas Eve, and I haven't met them or seen much out of them. I know that the husband is a truck driver, so he is not around. The mom lives there with a 12 year old, 4 year old, and a two year old, and was expecting another child any day. I guess they called 911, and the fire truck came and parked in front of our yard, then an ambulence drove by, but didn't stop, and then the police came. The police officer stayed for a long time til the coroner came. Another car came, and I'm guessing it was the investigator. I'm pretty freaked out. What should i do - bake them cookies???

[supernova]

1. Nobody left in an ambulance?

Just wondering if something happened to the mom or the baby-to-be.

Sheesh, how horrible! :-( If you can, walk next door and express your concern and gently ask if there's anything you can do, make phone calls for instance. There might be another family member that can come help. Also get the hubby home if it really is the worst.

[Warpy]

2. Sit tight for now

As you find out what happened, you might offer your help in whatever way you can extend it and they can accept it. After all, showing up bearing gifts before you know what they might need is usually not a great idea, and will just look like you're curious (which you are, of course).

Childcare might be better than cookies, so just let them know you're there and will help if you can.

[annagull]

3. put a ham in the oven

I would go over there and see if there is any way I could help. We have had neighbors bring over a ham, casserole, etc since when there is a death in the family the last thing anyone wants to do is fix something to eat. However, with all those kids and the Dad gone, you may want to see if there is any help you can give the kids.

[Skittles]

4. I would go over there

someone may need help. They might decline, but just the offer will be noticed. Especially if children are involved - they need to know people care.

[Don_G]

5. Do What You Think Is Right

I went through the same thing almost a year ago when my Mom died and I appreciated all the support I got.

Do what you can, when you can and you'll never regret it.

[jburton]

6. go over there and ask

obviously somebody died. offering to cook or get something from the store or whatever is a very nice thing to do.

[fortyfeetunder]

7. Any compassion is good

RamblingRose...welcome to DU, I can tell you have a kind heart.

I'd go over and introduce yourself, and make yourself available. Other things they might need are phone cards for long distance calls, and of course food. I am sure the family will appreciate any kind gesture.

[izzie]

8. Sounds sad but guess I would just offer help if needed.

n/t

[latebloomer]

9. Oh, that's awful!

Let us know what happened.

[trof]

10. Try and find out the situation.

Maybe call the fire dept.?
Coroner indicates it may be "other then natural causes".
Based on experience as a donor and receiver:
A big plate of cold cuts, mayo, mustard, bread, chips.
Cokes, 7 Up, ginger ale, orange juice, milk, whatever.
Everything you need to make a quick meal.

[bratcatinok]

11. Not cookies

but I would do a ham, a roast, some stew or soup. As most people have been saying, people who are in the middle of a crisis still need to eat. They don't think about eating unless the food it there and relatively easy to serve.

[Skittles]

12. HEY RR - HOW ABOUT AN UPDATE

???

[burrowowl]

13. Yes

Update!