Andre Lewis, a 26‑year‑old resident of Largo, Florida, is beginning the long process of rebuilding after a fire destroyed the recreational vehicle he called home. The blaze, which erupted in the early hours of last week, consumed the RV, its contents and Lewis’s three‑year‑old dog, Pluto.
Fire breaks out in the middle of the night
Lewis says he was awakened around 2 a.m. by a strange feeling. When he opened his bedroom door, he was met with a “fireball” and thick smoke that filled the interior of the vehicle. Recalling the fire‑safety training he had received, Lewis got as low as possible and made his way out of the RV, saying, “I didn’t think that I was going to be able to get out of the room.” He escaped without injury, but the fire left nothing behind but ash and the memory of his lost companion.
Loss of belongings and beloved pet
Lewis lived in the RV for about six months and had recently celebrated what he called a major personal milestone: purchasing a home of his own earlier this year. The fire took away the furniture, personal items, and his dog, Pluto, who he described as his best friend. “Losing Pluto has been the hardest part of the fire,” Lewis said, adding that the experience has been the toughest thing he has ever faced.
Cause of the blaze
According to the local fire marshal, a downed power line was identified as the source of the fire. Forgotten Angels, the nonprofit organization that runs a recovery compound for individuals in crisis, confirmed the finding and is now assisting Lewis as he navigates the aftermath.
Community support and next steps
Lewis is currently residing at the Forgotten Angels compound while he works to replace the items he lost and find a new place to live. The organization has launched a donation drive, collecting household goods and monetary contributions to help Lewis start over. “We are grateful for the outpouring of support and are asking for prayers as we figure out what comes next,” Lewis said.
How to help
Anyone interested in contributing can contact Forgotten Angels directly through their website, where a list of needed items and a secure donation portal are available. The nonprofit emphasizes that both material donations and financial assistance are welcome, as they aim to provide a stable foundation for Lewis while he rebuilds his life.
Lewis’s story underscores the importance of community compassion in times of sudden loss. With the backing of Forgotten Angels and local residents, he hopes to move forward, honoring Pluto’s memory and the resilience that has defined his journey so far.
Original reporting: Tampa Bay Florida News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
