A young Colorado family has lost their home and nearly all of their possessions after a neighbor's grilling accident ignited a devastating fire. Chris and Hannah James, residents of the Castle Rock suburb, saw their $600,000 family home destroyed on April 22 when a neighbor's grill set grease on fire, which then spread to dry mulch and was carried into their home by high winds, according to the fire department.
The Day of the Fire
Chris James was working from home when the fire started. He recalled being on a work call and initially unaware of the danger. A neighbor rushed to his door, banging and shouting, 'Your house is on fire, get out!' Chris fled without shoes, grabbing only their dog, while their cat remained inside. Firefighters rescued the cat, but it later died. 'She was going to make me her person,' Chris said of the feline.
Devastating Losses
The couple and their three children are now staying with relatives as they search for a new home. However, they soon discovered that their insurance had lapsed due to an oversight after a change in payment method, leaving them without coverage. 'It’s very daunting to think I have to start over,' Chris said. 'I had a roof over their heads and now we’ve got to find another one.'
The family lost cherished items, including Hannah's wedding dress and sports memorabilia. The reality of the loss is sinking in for their young children. 'You go to give the twins a bath and you’re like, I don’t have soap, I don’t have towels,' Chris noted.
Community Support
Without insurance, the James family is relying on the generosity of friends, family, and strangers. A GoFundMe campaign has raised over $32,000 to help them rebuild. 'We have our family and that’s the most important,' Hannah said, expressing gratitude for the donations of toys and clothes that help maintain a sense of normalcy.
