VICTORVILLE – A family of four lost their home and all of their pets after a fire, believed to be caused by a smoker explosion on 4th of July morning.
The family who lived in the 13900 block of Zing Road in the county area of Victorville were excitedly preparing for the holiday festivities by placing brisket in a smoker overnight. At 2:13 a.m. the smoker caught fire and the fire quickly spread to the family home.
The family escaped the home with only the clothing that they were wearing. Left behind were their wallets, ID’s, shoes, and more heartbreaking; the family pets and rescued pets. The father, Jim Lima attempted to rescue the four crated dogs, and four additional dogs, which were inside the home. He was overcome by the smoke and flames so he was forced to retreat. He lost consciousness due to smoke inhalation and sustained burn injuries as a result of the attempted rescue. He was airlifted to Arrowhead Regional Hospital, where he is now in stable condition. “Only the 4 puppies were crated,” said Amanda Lima. “Our three large dogs and our large foster [dogs] ran and hid under our bed. Despite our coaxing and trying to reach for them we weren’t able to get them.”
When firefighters arrived at the fully involved home they immediately began a defensive attack to prevent the spread to any other vegetation or structures. A life hazard alert was initiated due to downed power lines. Although the family is safe for the most part, they are shaken and saddened by the injury of their husband/father. They are heartbroken with not only the loss of their home but also both family pets and rescued pets, which included a female dog with puppies. “We are devastated about losing our beloved pets, including my service dog, to a raging inferno,” added Lima.
The mother of Amanda Lima started a Go Fund Me account to assist her family with their immediate needs while they figure out what their next steps will be. “They are good people, who have come to my rescue in time of need,” said family friend Laura Hinkle. “They help run the [dog] rescue as well.”
