Belleville Family Left With ‘Absolutely Nothing’ After Devastating Fire

BELLEVILLE, NJ — A Belleville family is struggling to put their lives back together after a fire left them with “absolutely nothing but the clothes on their backs.”

The home fire took place on the 800-block of Main Street on May 29. It is still under investigation, Belleville Fire Department officials said.

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A GoFundMe campaign has been started for one of the impacted families who lived at the property. View the fundraiser or make a donation here.

Here’s what happened, the organizer of the fundraiser says:

“On May 29, 2026, the Wintermute/Pinherio family—Kika, Rosangela, Adriana, Vald, and their dog Shiloh—experienced an unimaginable tragedy. A devastating fire broke out in their home, and in a matter of moments, they lost everything. While we are incredibly grateful that everyone made it out safely, they were left with absolutely nothing but the clothes on their backs.”

The fundraiser continues:

“This fire did not just destroy their physical home and decades of cherished memories; it consumed all of their personal belongings, including everyday essentials, clothing, and sentimental items. As they navigate the overwhelming reality of starting entirely from zero, they are facing immense hurdles. Any financial cushion they had is immediately tied up in navigating this crisis.”

Supporters of the family are trying to raise money to help them pay for housing, food, clothes and other essential household supplies.

“Kika is the kindest, most generous person you could ever meet,” the GoFundMe campaign states. “She is always the first to step up and help others in need, and now it’s our turn to show up for her and her family.”

Donate to the fundraising campaign here.

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com