Family loses home in Roscoe fire
Donations are being collected by American Legion Post 801.
First responders from across the Mon Valley battled a house fire in extreme heat Saturday.
With temperatures at their peak in the high 80s, firefighters were called to a structure fire around 2:10 p.m. on Rebecca Street in Roscoe.
The fire was fully involved when crews arrived, and firefighters began an immediate effort to suppress the flames and begin a search of the property.
Inside, they found a black Labrador retriever, the family pet, and were able to bring it out of the house.
The dog was passed along to members of the Stockdale Fire Department who began CPR, but they were not able to save the animal, according to a statement on the fire department’s social media.
In addition to the family’s dog, four cats and three kittens also died in the blaze.
Pictures of the home’s interior show devastating damage to the kitchen, with the ceiling charred and soot, ash and other materials covering the counters and floors.
“We are proud of the coordinated efforts and professionalism displayed by all agencies involved under challenging heat conditions. Great work by everyone who responded today,” the Roscoe Volunteer Fire Company said in an online statement.
American Legion Post 801 in Roscoe is accepting donations to assist the family, who have been displaced from their home.
Lou Furlong, American Legion Post 801 Home Association president, said more details will be shared on social media, but right now they are collecting monetary donations and clothing.
Sizes needed are women’s XS/1X/2X shirts, XS and L pants and size 7 and 9 shoes.
The family is also in need of men/boys clothes, M and L shirts, 32 and 34 (M or L) bottoms and size 10 and 11 shoes.
Donations can be dropped off after 1 p.m. each day at the legion, which is located at 520 Furlong Ave. in Roscoe.
“You folks have been phenomenal in the past with donations for various needs, and they’ve been very much appreciated,” Furlong said. “This is what it’s all about, neighbors helping neighbors in time of need.
“Any assistance you can offer — even if only prayers for the family and their lost pets, would be appreciated.”
Firefighters from Roscoe were assisted by California Volunteer Fire Department, Fallowfield Fire Company, Stockdale Fire Department, North Belle Vernon VFD, Bentleyville VFD, Brownsville Ambulance Service Inc. and Rostraver West Newton Emergency Services.
No additional injuries were reported.
