One of several lightning strikes to homes in Fayette County last week turned bad for a family in Fayetteville’s Lakemont subdivision. The extensive damage from the fire at 125 Windridge spurred Spring Hill Elementary School’s Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) into action to lend a helping hand.

PTO President Tom VanHoozer said one family member suffered minor injuries in the fire, which significantly damaged the home, fire officials said.

The fire is believed to have been started by a lightning strike, igniting a blaze in the attic area, said Fayetteville Fire Chief Alan Jones.

The fire got a bit of a head start since both Fayetteville fire trucks were on other storm-related calls when it was first reported at 7:22 p.m. Fayette County fire crews were first on scene six and a half minutes later, though the first engine wasn’t there for another three minutes, Jones said.

Firefighters were also hampered by the electrical storm, which left them unable to use aerial trucks that would have allowed them to shoot water directly on the blaze from above, Jones said.

The tragedy led to an effort to assist Earl and Foy Smith and their four children. Spring Hill PTO made an immediate donation to the family. VanHoozer said the homeowners association has been collecting funds to help with food, basic needs and clothing.

“We are asking that you first of all, pray for this family, as they are suffering a tragedy that most of us cannot comprehend. Second, please consider making a donation to help the family during this time,” VanHoozer said Tuesday, noting that Earl Smith is out of the country and attempting to return. “They are temporarily staying in a local hotel for the rest of the week. The school system and the PTO are helping. What they need most now are monetary contributions and help finding a rental property. We are hoping to get some help from local Realtors.”

Fire crews were able to assist the family in retrieving some belongings that had been spared damage from not just the fire but the water that was used to extinguish the fire, Jones said.

VanHoozer said an account is being set up at Heritage Bank located at 855 S. Glynn Street, Fayetteville, Ga., 30214. Checks should be payable to the Smith Family Fund. VanHoozer said he can advise interested parties on any non-monetary donations that might be needed. He can be contacted by email at tom@aopp.net.

A second account has been set up at Bank of America. Donations can be made to the Foy E. Smith Family Assistance Fund at any bank branch.

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