GREENSBORO, North Carolina — A mother has been sentenced to 30 to 38 years in prison after pleading guilty to three counts of second-degree murder for leaving her young children inside a burning home in December 2022.

Brandi Sturdivant, 32, admitted to the charges in connection with the deaths of her 1-year-old twins and 4-year-old child, who were trapped in a bedroom as flames engulfed the house. First responders found the children huddled together after the fire.

Autopsies determined the children died from smoke inhalation and carbon monoxide poisoning. Toxicology reports also found cocaine in one of the children’s systems, further highlighting concerns about the home environment.

Investigators say Sturdivant turned the stove to 500 degrees before leaving the home that morning, though fire officials later confirmed the stove was not the source of the blaze. Evidence instead pointed to a fire starting near the back of the home, where a gasoline can was also discovered outside.

Doorbell camera footage reportedly captured Sturdivant leaving the residence while smoke was already visible. She was later found down the street, appearing distressed and making statements about harming herself.

The case revealed a troubling history of Child Protective Services involvement, with multiple reports filed over the years — including one made by Sturdivant’s own mother in 2022. Neighbors described her as often leaving the children home alone and referred to her as “the crazy lady next door.”

Sturdivant’s sentencing brings a painful close to a case that shocked the Greensboro community. The children’s deaths have prompted renewed calls for stronger oversight in cases involving vulnerable families and substance abuse.

The family’s unimaginable loss continues to weigh heavily on loved ones and neighbors who knew the children.