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WEST JORDAN — A family from South Sudan is now asking for help after their home went up in flames Tuesday night.
If you can imagine losing absolutely everything except the clothes you have on your body, that's what the Njor family is experiencing right now. There isn't anything left inside the home.
The family came from South Sudan to escape violence in 2004. Irreplaceable valuables they brought with them are gone, including all of their money, photos and citizenship documents. A mother, her six kids and an uncle were all living in the home.
This isn't the first time they've experienced tragedy. The family has also lost a father and two sons a few years ago. Because of a disability, the mother, Abok, can't work.
One son, Manjang, said he was coming home from basketball practice when he saw his home on fire.
Related:
Painted hydrant creates problem for crews fighting house fire
Investigators believe fireworks may have started a house fire that destroyed a home here Tuesday night."I was crying because I couldn't find my little brother and my little sister, and they said they were at my neighbor's house," He said. "I was worried about that and my mom. I was crying where she was at too. And I found out everyone was safe."
Firefighters had a hard time fighting the blaze early on, losing precious minutes because a fire hydrant had been painted over. The paint created a seal that meant an extra 10 minutes was spent attaching the hose to the hydrant before water could flow.
No one was injured in the fire. Officials believe the fire was started by fireworks, but it is still under investigation.
As for the family, they have no money or permanent place to stay. The Red Cross helped them for three nights and now their LDS bishop is assisting them, but they aren't sure where they'll go long term.
A fundraising car wash has been scheduled for Wednesday July 25 at 7:00 p.m. on the corner of 4100 South and Bangerter Highway. Those interested can also donate at any First National Bank.
