Newton home was a complete loss- homeowner was uninsured

At approximately 11:42 p.m. Saturday night, Newton VFD responded to a call for a structure fire at 5131 County Road 4002. The home of John Ebarb and his daughter Michelle was thought to have been caused by lightning strike and started in the attic.

Newton Volunteer Fire Captain Melanie Bowman said, "Fire quickly spread throughout the house and was hard to stop due to sub flooring in the attic and additional walls that were added to as they added additions to the house. The house is a total loss and brother John has no insurance. He also has some medical issues at this time as does his daughter".

A total of seven trucks and over 50,000 gallons of water was used trying to control the fire.

Special thanks goes to Trout Creek Vol. Fire Department and Bon Wier Fire Department for their mutual aid assistance.

Bowman added, 'Also we would like to thank the officer from Newton PD and the officer for Newton County Sheriff's Office for the help as well".

With extenuating circumstances including medical issues, Bowman said, "I'm going to be taking donations this week for Brother John. So if you would like to help please contact me. 409-594-3407. John said they didn't need clothes right now. But I will be taking donations of food stuff or groceries, hygiene, household goods are monetary donations for them to start over."