UPDATED: Information for providing assistance can be found at below.
The Arnold Fire Department responded to a fire involving a single-family home on Lower Powel Canyon Rd east of Arnold at about 2:30 PM, Sunday afternoon, January 18.
The home of Marv and Debbie Ritchie was fully engulfed when firefighters arrived, with flames extending through the roof. With winds gusting over 40 mph while crews were fighting the blaze, their focus was primarily on protecting an adjacent garage on the south side of the residence and preventing the fire from spreading into the nearby pastureland.
Mutual aid was requested from the Callaway Fire Department, Merna Fire Department and Stapleton Fire Departments. Additional EMS resources were also called from Callaway and Broken Bow due to manpower on scene in case of emergency.
Firefighters were able to save the garage; however, the residence is a total loss. The cause of the fire remains undetermined at this time.
The Arnold Fire Department expressed appreciation to firefighters, local farmers, neighbors and anyone that assisted during the incident. Community support is vital in rural emergencies. The department also extended thoughts and prayers to the family affected by the loss of their home, belongings and pets.
Although the Ritchies are OK, they are are now in need of clothing, shoes and toiletries.
If you can help, items can be dropped off in Arnold at Reeds Food Center and Mills Hardware, or in Callaway at 402 N Morgan Ave., or if you are out of town and want to help text or call Deb Hall 308-340-3126.
Womens size 8 shoes, 18 pants and lg-xl tops.
Mens size 9.5 shoes, 48×32 pants and 2xl shirts.
