Nationwide — Jimmy Walton, who is 72 years old, and his daughter, Tanya, who is 28 years old, tragically died in a house fire early Sunday morning in Georgiana, Alabama. The two were reportedly trying to escape the fire but were trapped when the house collapsed.
The fire was reported around 3:20 a.m. on Sunday. When firefighters arrived, a “frantic resident” informed them that her husband and daughter were still inside, according to WLBT.
“Unfortunately, two individuals were confirmed deceased,” said Georgiana Police Chief Jeremy Peagler.
According to the family, Jimmy and Tanya had initially escaped the fire. But when Tanya realized her two dogs were left behind, she went back in an attempt to rescue them. Jimmy followed to help, but neither made it out before the house collapsed.
The fire destroyed their home and car. Family members believe a space heater caused the fire, though the official cause is still under investigation by the Alabama State Fire Marshal’s Office.
Moreover, a GoFundMe campaign has been set up to support the grieving family, who not only lost her husband and daughter but also her home. It has so far raised over $11,000.
