Jack and Dottie Liwai’s home burned Dec. 12 and a benefit account for them has been established at First Texoma National Bank.
Mrs. Liwai is the daughter of the late Bob Peterson, who was a longtime co-owner and publisher of the Durant Democrat. After Mr. Peterson’s retirement, he continued to write his popular “Keeping in Step” column for the Democrat.
The Durant Fire Department was dispatched at 12:02 p.m. to the home at 1969 Marie Drive and thick, black smoke was observed while firefighters were en route.
According to a DFD report, there was heavy smoke emitting from one side of the home and flames were visible that were “wind driven” due to strong wind coming from the south and the fire spread through the attic. Firefighters began an interior attack and prepared to cut holes in the roof to ventilate it and slow the fire from spreading.
“Our initial efforts were not slowing the fire spread,” firefighter Jeff Rush wrote in his report. “The wind was rapidly pushing the fire through the structure.”
According to the DFD report, the fire conditions worsened which forced the firefi ghters inside to retreat from the home and begin a defensive attack against the flames.
The fire was extinguished at approximately 3:45 p.m. and firefighters cleared the scene just before 5 p.m.
The State Fire Marshal was contacted to begin an investigation for the cause of the fire which was ruled accidental but undetermined at the time of the DFD report.
Mrs. Liwai said at the scene that a “popping” sound was heard in the home before the fire. Some pets survived but a puppy did not make it. She said they were able to salvage some of their Christmas presents.
Donations to help the family can be made at any of First Texoma National Bank’s locations in Durant, Boswell and Sherman.
Lost Street Brewing Co. hosted a fundraiser for the family on Thursday evening that included baked goods and quilt auctions.
“Our hearts are heavy as we support Jack and Dottie Liwai, a wonderful family who tragically lost their home in a fire,” the brewery said, in a social media post.
Asian Gourmet restaurant is having carryout meals from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. Saturday with all proceeds benefi ting the Liwai family.
