Community helps fire victims

A FIRE MONDAY NIGHT destroyed a home at 2502 Ash St. Jim Smith, who was sleeping in the travel trailer at right when the fire broke out, suffered burns when he rushed into the house to help rescue his grandchildren. Smith was in stable condition today at Emanuel Hospital in Portland. CARLA SORWEIDE / La Grande Fire Department

The family of seven, including four children, was residing in an Ash Street rental home that was completely destroyed in the blaze that erupted about 10:30 p.m.

Before the arrival of the fire department, the children’s father, Steven Lane, grandfather, Jim Smith, and a neighbor, Shane Hubble, all braved flames and smoke to get the children to safety. 

Crystal Voyles, the children’s mother, said Smith is in stable condition.

“He’s dong great,” she said. “His vital signs are all stable, though he is in some pain.”

She said Smith will remain in the hospital for at least the next couple of days. His stay will be longer if doctors decide to do skin grafts.

The home and its contents were a total loss. Cause of the fire is still under investigation.

The family, including Lane, Voyles and children Ashley, 2, Aaden, 6, Austin, 4, and Alexis, 7, has arranged lodging with relatives. The Red Cross is providing food and clothing.

“We’re staying with my mom,” Voyles said. “It’s a little cramped, but it’s a roof over our heads.”

To further help the family recover, donation jars have been placed at the Spruce Street Market, Willow Grocery, J.D.’s Market and Hought’s 24 Flavors.

Voyles said she and her family appreciate the support the community has shown.

“I’d just like to thank all our friends who have helped,” she said. “They’ve been good friends.”

Debbie Flippen, Voyles’ mother, added her thanks as well.

“We’ve had so much help from people here and from Baker County, too,” she said. “Our phone’s just been ringing and ringing.”