A second-alarm structure fire drew firefighters from across Cayuga County to South Street in Weedsport early Thursday.
Crews from Weedsport, Port Byron, Jordan, Sennett, Elbridge, Auburn, and Aurelius Fire responded to the call, along with Owasco RIT and Jordan Ambulance, according to Cayuga/Seneca Fire Wire.
Firefighters arrived to find a working fire. Auburn Truck 1 and multiple command units reported on scene. Command ordered an exterior-only attack as crews worked to bring the blaze under control.
Officials initially confirmed all occupants made it out of the house.
As the incident continued, command requested a second alarm. Additional apparatus responded, including Aurelius Quint 1 and units from Sennett and Jordan. Crews laid supply lines from a hydrant and continued operations for several hours.
More details about the impact of the fire emerged later through a GoFundMe fundraiser organized by family members. According to the fundraiser, a family of six lost their home and all of their belongings in the fire. The household includes three adults and three teenagers.
The fundraiser states that one adult, identified as Ron, suffered severe burns and is currently hospitalized in the intensive care unit, where he is intubated and expected to remain for several weeks while receiving treatment. The organizer said the rest of the family escaped with minor injuries.
The family is seeking financial help to cover hotel stays, clothing, eyewear, and other daily necessities. The fundraiser also notes that three cats and a hamster were in the home at the time of the fire, and the pets were believed to be lost.
As of Thursday, the GoFundMe campaign had raised more than $18,000 toward a $30,000 goal, with more than 150 donations. The organizer said Live a Little Boutique in Weedsport is also collecting donations for the family.
The cause of the fire has not been reported.
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