Jay family arrives home, finds home on fire

Home owners Rex and Theresa Smith said that the family arrived home after church to see smoke coming from the chimney but none of the family members had started a fire that morning.

"We left for church, closed our door, like so many mornings, and come back never able to walk in our home again," said home owner Theresa Smith. "As bad as it was in a lot of the rooms, we found a Bible in every room that made it. That, to me, is a sign that even in the hardest time, He was still there."

At 12:30 p. m., Sunday, Feb. 11, the Berrydale Volunteer Fire Department responded to a 911 report of a structure fire in the block 4400 of Sutton Allen Road in Jay, Fla.

"When I arrived on the scene at 12:40, it was fully involved," said Berrydale Volunteer Fire Chief Gerald Welch. "There were flames coming out through the windows and roof."

The Jay Volunteer Fire, Allentown Volunteer Fire and Santa Rosa County Sheriff's Department arrived on scene to assist.

Welch said the fire was under control by 1:16 p.m. and completely extinguished by 2 p.m.

"No one was injured," said Welch. "We were able to save a closet bedroom area, some clothing and personal items. We were glad we were able to save them something."

The Smiths' mobile home is located in Jay but is zoned for the Berrydale Fire Department's district.

Welch said homeowner Rex Smith pulled open the front door when the family first arrived and was able to save a few pictures and items inside the front door, including several pairs of shoes, but little else. Mr. Smith inhaled thick black smoke, causing him to have respiratory issues and was transported to Jay Hospital. He was treated and released later that day.

Mrs. Smith said according to the Florida fire marshall, the fire was most likely caused by a lighting strike to the residence. The Red Cross has stepped in to assist the family.

"Our community has come together, our church pastor was on scene within minutes," said Mrs. Smith. "The outpouring of support has been tremendous. It still hurts, but its all material. We're all right. People come together and help you. I appreciate everything everybody has done. Every day is precious."

An account has been set up at Santa Rosa Credit Union in Jay in the name of Theresa Smith. Donations are being accepted.