Yuma family picks up the pieces after fire destroys their home and claims the life of a family pet
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - An afternoon house fire in Yuma injured one and claimed the life of a family cat, and the family who shares how they're dealing with this unexpected situation.
"So from here on out, it's just collecting what we can to move forward," says Ryan Sill, organizer of a GoFundMe created to help his brothers.
Picking up the pieces, that's all Ryan Sill and his family can do now after a fire damaged their home near Kennedy Park Monday afternoon.
When firefighters got there, flames and smoke could be seen coming from multiple openings of the home.
David Padilla with the Yuma Fire Department says, "Crews were able to get on scene, quickly establish a water supply, and provide an aggressive fire attack."
But the home now has some heavy fire damage, displacing everyone who lived there.
"Unfortunately, the home isn't occupiable. The family was forced to move out. We were able to save a few of their belongings. Thankfully everybody got out with their lives," Padilla shares.
A man in the home was injured after he burned his hand while trying to rescue his animals.
The man was treated at the scene but unfortunately, one cat did not escape.
"Every animal except my youngest brother's cat survived. The cat was trapped and couldn't get out. Nobody could get to it," says Sill.
Sill says his family has called the place home for over 30 years.
He shares a heartfelt message for the support his family's been receiving: "Everyone has been helping out. We're very grateful for everyone has been reaching out. We've had a lot of support from the Yuma community. We're very grateful."
An investigation is still ongoing to determine the cause of the fire.
If you would like to help out, items like toiletries, clothing, and pet food would be greatly appreciated. Donations are also welcomed HERE. Contact Ryan Sill at (928) 304-6650 for more information.
