Family That Lost Home in Arson Fire Thankful to Community
The Riggs family who lost their home and all their possessions in a fire that was set by two 13-year-old boys is thankful to the community for their support and aid in their time of need.
Mike Riggs, sent an email to the Germantown Pulse expressing his family’s gratitude.
"We are truly touched by the tremendous outpouring of generosity and support from our Kingsview neighbors and community,” wrote Riggs. “Both the Kingsview Middle School and Northwest High School staff and students have been especially supportive and helpful throughout this ordeal. As well as our immediate neighbors and friends throughout the community. From donations of clothing and supplies to helping with the cleanup, to the GoFundMe site started by Billy's classmates, we will be forever grateful to the entire community. We thank you all so very much."
The GoFundMe.com account, which was set up by two eighth graders at Kingsview Middle School, has raised over $7,000 in donations from members of the community over the last 13 days to help the Riggs family as they work through these difficult times.
The fire that displaced the Riggs family happened on Wednesday, Oct. 28. Neighbors called 911 to report that the back of the house was on fire. First arriving firefighters encountered heavy fire in the large three-story home. Fire officials believe the fire started in the rear outside of the house and quickly consumed much of the rear exterior walls and up into the attic.
The family of four was be displaced as a result of the fire, which officials estimate did more than $400,000 in damage to the residence, which suffered significant fire, smoke, water damage. Three Montgomery County firefighters also suffered minor injuries fighting the fire.
Last Friday, two Germantown 13-year-old boys were arrested and charged with Arson in the First Degree, a Felony; Malicious Burning in the First Degree, a Felony; Malicious Destruction of Property, a misdemeanor; and Reckless Endangerment, a Misdemeanor, according to Pete Piringer, senior spokesman for MCFRS.