Locals are rallying to support a dad and his two young sons after a fire severely damaged their home last week in Crescent Beach.
A GoFundMe campaign started by family friend Kris Pederson aims to help Scott Lanham and his two boys, Owen and Quinn, recover from the blaze that left their home a charred shell.
“The devastation is overwhelming, and they are struggling to rebuild their life from scratch,” Pederson wrote in his appeal.
As of Sunday, the campaign had raised nearly $5,000.
According to St. Johns County Fire Rescue, firefighters responded to shooting flames reported in the 5000 block of Pelican Way.
Engine Company 6 arrived to find the garage and carport area engulfed.
Firefighters managed to knock down the main body of the fire, and a search confirmed no one was inside the home at the time.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported, no evacuations were necessary, and no nearby properties were damaged.
The fire reportedly began in the carport area, but the cause remains under investigation by the State Fire Marshal’s Office. Fire Rescue spokesperson Chris Naff confirmed that the fire was not caused by an electric vehicle or related charging equipment, dispelling some public speculation.
The residence sustained extensive damage, leaving the Lanham family displaced and with few possessions.
The GoFundMe fundraiser is intended to provide assistance for temporary housing, clothing, and other essentials as the family begins rebuilding their lives.
“We are asking for your generosity and support to help them recover from this heartbreaking loss,” Pederson wrote.
Local fire officials t and State Fire Marshal’s Office continue their investigation into the cause of the fire.
