Laura Young
ECB Publishing, Inc.
On Friday, May 15, at 11:07 p.m., Jefferson County Fire Rescue responded to 448 Sam Perry Rd. (between Greenville and Lamont), where an occupied dwelling was reportedly on fire, along with nearby trees.
Upon arrival, firefighters found a single-family wood-framed home fully enflamed and all occupants outside of the structure. A pump house and mini-van were also afire. The fire was extinguished using about 12,000 gallons of water. Assisting in the response were the Lloyd Volunteer Fire Department, Ashville Volunteer Department, Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, Tri-County Electric Cooperative and the American Red Cross.
According to the incident report, the owner stated that the fire started around the clothes dryer, and investigation determined this to be the location of ignition. The owner stated they worked to put the fire out using a garden hose until the heat became unbearable.
Emergency personnel cleared the scene at 2:41 a.m. on Saturday, May 16. All structures and the van were deemed a total loss.
A GoFundMe page has been set up to support the Thomas family, who occupied the home. A couple and their four children resided there.
Father Edwin Thomas states, "Late Friday night, we lost everything in a house fire. It was not just my home but the house my grandfather built. It was an old house, but some upgrades were done in the interior; it still had that genuine feel of his hard work. We are devastated and heartbroken, but thank God we are alive and safe. The family vehicle burned up as well, along with a lifetime of memories. My eldest daughter recently graduated from college and moved back home. My youngest son is graduating from high school this Friday. That being said, we need help to recover. Anything you can donate will be greatly appreciated. Please keep my family and me in your prayers, and thanks in advance for any help sent."
To donate, visit: www.gofundme.com/f/support-for-the-thomas-family-after-the-fire