SUFFOLK, Va. — Moments after a thunderstorm swept through Suffolk Saturday evening, fire crews rushed to a home along Nansemond Pkwy. to put out the flames.
Diana Klink, a spokesperson for the City of Suffolk, said the family called 9-1-1 shortly after 7 p.m. to report a house fire.
Firefighters arrived at the 1800 block of Nansemond Pkwy., where the home’s attic was engulfed in flames.
The family of four: a husband, a wife, and their two young sons were able to evacuate their home safely. Crews rescued the family’s dog.
Just feet away from the home, members of the family’s church stood by to offer their support.
Monty White, a Pastor at Zion Community Church, said he has a tight-knit relationship with the family.
“They called 9-1-1, and then they called the church,” said White.
“The family was in the home enjoying their Saturday evening, and they smelled something burning. They began to search the house to see where it was coming from, but it was too late. They heard a loud boom from the thunder and after that, they just ran out of the house to take cover.”
Ben Fitzgerald, the Lead Pastor of the church, said the fact that no one was hurt is a blessing.
“We’re grateful. Tragedies happen, but there’s always a blessing at the end,” said Fitzgerald.
“It could’ve been much worse. They’re a little shaken, but no one’s been harmed and we count that to the providence of God.”
Crews had the fire under control by 7:53 p.m.
The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing, but early reports from the City of Suffolk indicated lightning may have caused it.
White said his church will help the family recover their losses. He and other church leaders plan to hold an emergency drive during their service on Sunday.
The church is collecting donations for the family. If you’d like to help, contact Zion Community church.
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